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Deficiency: meaning, definitions and examples

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deficiency

 

[dɪˈfɪʃ(ə)nsi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

A state or situation in which something is lacking or inadequate.

Synonyms

insufficiency, lack, shortage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deficiency

Typically used in medical, nutritional, or technical contexts to refer to a state where necessary elements are missing or lower than required levels.

  • Iron deficiency can lead to anemia.
  • The report identified several deficiencies in the current system.
lack

Used in everyday language to indicate the absence or shortage of something; it carries a straightforward and neutral tone.

  • There is a lack of basic amenities in the area.
  • She seems to lack confidence in her abilities.
shortage

Commonly used to describe a situation where the supply of something is insufficient to meet the demand, often in economic, supply chain, or resource-related contexts.

  • There is a shortage of nurses in the hospital.
  • The city faced a severe water shortage due to prolonged drought.
insufficiency

Often used in formal contexts to describe a situation where something is inadequate or not enough to meet a particular need or requirement.

  • The budget insufficiency caused delays in the project.
  • Cardiac insufficiency needs to be treated carefully.

Examples of usage

  • There was a deficiency of vitamins in his diet.
  • She suffered from a deficiency of iron in her blood.
Context #2 | Noun

financial

A lack of something, especially money.

Synonyms

debt, deficit, shortfall.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
deficiency

This term is often used when talking about a lack or shortage of something necessary, such as nutrients in the body or resources in a system. It can be used in both technical and everyday contexts.

  • The doctor diagnosed him with a vitamin D deficiency.
  • There's a deficiency in the system that needs to be resolved.
debt

Debt is most commonly used in financial contexts to describe money that is owed. It can also refer to a moral or emotional obligation, but this sense is less common.

  • She has a significant amount of student loan debt.
  • I feel I am in debt to you for your kindness.
shortfall

Often used to describe a situation where available resources fall short of what is required or expected, particularly in financial or supply contexts.

  • The company faced a shortfall in their quarterly earnings.
  • There is a shortfall in water supply due to the drought.
deficit

This word is frequently used in economic or financial situations to describe a shortfall where expenditures exceed revenues. It can also be used in more general contexts to describe a lack or insufficiency.

  • The government's budget deficit has reached an all-time high.
  • The project is facing a manpower deficit.

Examples of usage

  • The company faced a deficiency in funds.
  • They experienced a deficiency in their budget.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'deficientia', meaning a lack or shortage.
  • It has roots in the prefix 'de-', which implies removal, and 'facere', meaning to do or make.
  • By the late 14th century, it was used in Middle English to describe a failing or inadequacy.

Science

  • Deficiencies can relate to essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, impacting overall health.
  • For example, a Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weakened bones and immune issues.
  • Iron deficiency can result in anemia, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Pop Culture

  • Many diets or health fads often discuss nutrient deficiencies, impacting public perceptions of food.
  • Movies and documentaries sometimes highlight the consequences of nutritional deficiency in certain populations.
  • The character Gollum in 'The Lord of the Rings' showcases a deficiency of kindness and hope, reflecting on psychological aspects.

Literature

  • In literature, deficiency can symbolize a character's inner struggles, reflecting emotional or moral shortages.
  • Classic works often use the theme of deficiency to explore human needs and societal criticism.
  • Authors like Charles Dickens highlighted the deficiencies of social systems in providing for the poor.

Psychology

  • Psychological deficiency can refer to a lack of emotional skills or ways to cope with stress.
  • The concept of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs includes deficiency needs, which are essential for survival and well-being.
  • Studies show that individuals who feel a deficiency in social connections often experience increased feelings of loneliness.

Translations

Translations of the word "deficiency" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deficiência

🇮🇳 कमी

🇩🇪 Mangel

🇮🇩 kekurangan

🇺🇦 дефіцит

🇵🇱 niedobór

🇯🇵 欠乏

🇫🇷 déficience

🇪🇸 deficiencia

🇹🇷 eksiklik

🇰🇷 결핍

🇸🇦 نقص

🇨🇿 nedostatek

🇸🇰 nedostatok

🇨🇳 缺乏

🇸🇮 pomanjkanje

🇮🇸 skortur

🇰🇿 жетіспеушілік

🇬🇪 ნაკლებობა

🇦🇿 çatışmazlıq

🇲🇽 deficiencia

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,559, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.