Deficiency
/dɪˈfɪʃənsi/
Definitions
2 meaningsA lack or shortage of something; an inadequacy.
/dɪˈfɪʃənsi/
A lack or shortage of something.
The doctor diagnosed a iron deficiency in the patient.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're baking a cake, but you're missing an ingredient, like sugar. A deficiency is like that - it means something important is missing. For example, if you don't eat enough fruits and vegetables, you might have a vitamin deficiency.
👶 For kids: When you don't have enough of something you need. Like, if you don't drink enough water, you might have a water deficiency!
More Examples
A deficiency of skilled workers is hindering economic growth.
The report highlighted the deficiencies in the current educational system.
How It's Used
"Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone problems."
"The budget showed a deficiency of funds for the project."
"There was a deficiency in her understanding of the material."
A fault or shortcoming.
/dɪˈfɪʃənsi/
A flaw or imperfection; a failing.
The inspector found several deficiencies in the building's structure.
💡 Simply: Imagine a car with a broken headlight. That's a deficiency – something's not working quite right, a flaw or problem. Think of a recipe that's missing a key ingredient; it has a deficiency.
👶 For kids: When something is not good enough or has a problem. Like if your drawing has a missing part.
More Examples
Her major deficiency was a lack of communication skills.
The company was criticized for the deficiencies in its customer service.
How It's Used
"The report pointed out deficiencies in the company's safety procedures."
"The audit revealed deficiencies in the accounting practices."
Idioms & expressions
deficiency disease
A disease caused by the lack of a specific nutrient.
"Scurvy is a deficiency disease caused by a lack of vitamin C."
From Middle French déficience, from Latin deficientia, from deficere ('to fail').
The word 'deficiency' has been used in English since the 16th century, initially referring to a failing or a lack.
Memory tip
Think of 'deficit' – a shortage. Deficiency is similar, but can refer to a lack of skills, nutrients, or anything needed.
Word Origin
"to fail or be wanting"