Synonyms for

Deficient

Verb / dɪˈfɪʃʌnt / Another word for deficient — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not having enough of a specified quality or ingredient; inadequate or insufficient

Synonyms & similar words

substandard insufficient inferior wanting sufficient lacking inadequate insufficient lacking wanting defective faulty imperfect flawed limited scarce scant short sparse meager incomplete fragmentary partial substandard poor low-quality

Synonyms by register

Formal

inadequate lacking insufficient wanting

Informal

short not enough low

Literary

meager scant

Antonyms

sufficient adequate plentiful abundant complete ample copious

Common collocations

  • deficient in
  • severely deficient
  • vitamins deficient
  • nutrient deficient
  • financially deficient
  • chronically deficient
  • morally deficient

Word family

noun deficiency
adverb deficiently

Usage note

Often used with 'in' to specify what is lacking, e.g., 'deficient in iron'. Can refer to a lack of something essential or a flaw in character.

Example sentences

  1. The team's defense was deficient, and they lost the game.
  2. The recipe called for two cups of flour, but I was deficient by one cup.
  3. The company's safety measures were deficient, and there were many accidents.
  4. The student's knowledge of math was deficient, and they struggled with the subject.
  5. The hotel's amenities were deficient, and guests were unhappy.

Quotes

  • I am deficient in understanding what motivates people.
  • I'm deficient in some nutrients.
  • The world is deficient in love, but don't let that be your excuse not to love.

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