Words / B2

di-FISHUNT/dɪˈfɪʃnt/

Deficient means not having enough of something needed: deficient in iron; a deficient process. Deficiency is the noun (already in the dictionary). Insufficient is close; poor is vaguer. A diet deficient in iron. Opposite: sufficient (already in the dictionary). Do not call a person deficient in a casual insult — it is dated and rude.

Meaning

Not having enough of something that is needed.

Examples

• “The diet was deficient in iron, the school nurse reported.”
• “Safeguarding training was deficient, which is the systems sense in inspections.”

Good to know

deficient in + nutrient; a deficient service. Noun: deficiency. Close: insufficient / lacking. Opposite: sufficient. Health and inspection reports. Avoid as a personal slur.

Near in meaning

insufficient

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