Meaning & Definition of word "Deficient"
Deficient
/dɪˈfɪʃ.ənt/
adjective:
- 1. not having enough of a specified quality or ingredient
- Example: The patient was diagnosed as deficient in vitamin D, requiring supplements.
- 2. lacking in some necessary quality or element
- Example: The plan was deficient in clarity, leading to confusion among team members.
- 3. insufficient in amount or degree; inadequate
- Example: Her knowledge of the subject was deficient, which affected her performance in the exam.
Etymology
●Late Middle English: from Old French 'deficient' or from Latin 'deficient-' meaning 'failing.'
Common Phrases and Expressions
deficient in:
lacking a necessary quality or ingredient.
deficient amount:
an amount that is not sufficient.
deficient performance:
performance that is below expectations.
Related Words
deficiency:
a lack or shortage of something.
deficiently:
in a manner that is lacking in quality or quantity.
deficientness:
the quality of being deficient.
Slang Meanings of deficient
Meaning: Not up to par.
● Example Sentence: That presentation was a bit deficient, no offense.
Meaning: Slacking.
● Example Sentence: He's been deficient in his work lately.