Deficit
/ˈdefɪsɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsA shortfall or deficiency, especially of money or resources, when the amount received is less than the amount spent.
/ˈdefɪsɪt/
The amount by which something, especially a sum of money, is too small.
The trade deficit between the two countries widened last year.
💡 Simply: Imagine you planned to spend $100, but you only have $80. That $20 difference is a deficit! It's like when your allowance isn't enough to buy that cool toy.
👶 For kids: When you don't have enough money to buy something you want.
More Examples
The government is trying to reduce the national debt and eliminate the budget deficit.
A sleep deficit can lead to various health problems.
How It's Used
"The country faced a budget deficit of $5 billion last year."
"The company reported a significant cash flow deficit for the quarter."
A lack or deficiency in something, such as a skill, ability, or resource.
/ˈdefɪsɪt/
A lack or deficiency in something.
The city has a deficit of affordable housing.
💡 Simply: It's when you're missing something you need. Like if you're always tired, you might have a 'sleep deficit' because you're not getting enough rest.
👶 For kids: When you don't have enough of something you need.
More Examples
Her writing showed a deficit of creativity.
This area has a deficit of good weather.
How It's Used
"A vitamin D deficit can contribute to low mood."
"There's a severe deficit of skilled workers in the industry."
Idioms & expressions
budget deficit
The amount by which a government's spending exceeds its revenue in a specific period.
"The country's budget deficit is a major concern for economists."
trade deficit
The amount by which a country's imports exceed its exports.
"The United States has often experienced a trade deficit with China."
cognitive deficit
A problem with how your brain processes information.
"Certain illnesses can lead to a cognitive deficit."
From Latin *dēficit* (third-person singular present active indicative of *dēficiō* 'to fail, be wanting'), from *de-* 'away, from' + *faciō* 'do, make'.
The term 'deficit' has been used in financial contexts since the 17th century, reflecting early bookkeeping practices.
Memory tip
Think of the 'de-' in deficit meaning 'lacking' and 'ficit' like 'financial'.