deficiency

[dih-fish-uhn-see] / dɪˈfɪʃ ən si /

NOUN

imperfection, inadequacy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

dearth defect failing failure fault flaw frailty glitch insufficiency lack scarcity shortage shortcoming weakness

STRONG

absence bug defalcation default deficit demerit dereliction loss need neglect paucity privation scantiness sin want

WEAK

inability to hack it insufficience

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abundance advantage enough excess perfection plenty strength strong point success sufficiency surplus

STRONG

accomplishment achievement

WEAK

adequacy faultlessness satisfaction superfluity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Without enough B12, things can go wrong, sometimes seriously, especially if deficiency is not recognized and treated.

From Science Daily • May 27, 2026

The findings suggest the tropical fruit juice could become a useful addition to nutrition programs aimed at preventing iron deficiency anemia in regions where the condition is widespread.

From Science Daily • May 27, 2026

The minimum threshold used to define deficiency may not capture early functional changes in the nervous system.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

"In addition to redefining B12 deficiency, clinicians should consider supplementation in older patients with neurological symptoms even if their levels are within normal limits," she said.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

A deficiency of these vitamins has been found to accompany mouth cancer and perhaps cancer of other sites in the digestive tract.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson

Vocabulary lists containing deficiency

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