are deficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are deficient" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack or insufficiency in something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The results of the study indicate that the current resources are deficient in meeting the needs of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

These protections are deficient for H-1B workers.

The New York Times

"Many people are deficient in vitamin D," said Prof Garland.

The Guardian

He believes that those who are deficient in empathy can be taught.

The Guardian - Books

You are deficient in it to the tune of one".

Independent

I'm not criticizing our league, but a lot of players that come in now are deficient fundamentally.

The New York Times - Sports

Compare your nutritional intake to the U.S.D.A. recommended daily allowances to see if you are deficient in any areas.

The New York Times

It is not that the superstitions of former days are deficient in terrific interest, or even in poetical beauty.

The Guardian - Books

Such children are recurrent figures in Godden's work; they are vulnerable, observant individuals who are deficient in charm but gifted with perception beyond their years.

The Guardian - Books

He and Mr. Safir remain committed to policies that push cops who are deficient in judgment, training and supervision into situations they are not prepared to handle.

The New York Times

"It's not that these crop plants are deficient in any way," said Dr. Maris Apse, a postdoctoral researcher in Dr. Blumwald's laboratory.

The New York Times - Science

There is no dearth of possibilities, after all: as a species we are deficient in many ways, but we have a talent for atrocity.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are deficient", clearly specify what the subject is lacking and the context of the deficiency. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity. For example, "The soil is deficient in nitrogen," is more informative than simply, "The soil is deficient".

Common error

Avoid using "are deficient" without specifying what is lacking. Saying something "is deficient" without context leaves the reader wondering what the deficiency pertains to. Always provide specific details to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are deficient" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a subject as lacking something essential or adequate. Ludwig examples confirm its adjectival role, indicating a condition of insufficiency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are deficient" is a grammatically sound and frequently used way to describe a lack or inadequacy. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it functions as a predicate adjective, commonly appearing in science, news and media, and formal business contexts. While generally neutral, the register can lean towards formal depending on the source. When using the phrase, ensure you clearly specify what is lacking to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases include "are lacking" and "are insufficient".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are lacking

Emphasizes the absence of something needed.

are inadequate

Highlights the insufficiency to meet a specific requirement or standard.

are insufficient

Similar to inadequate, but often refers to a quantity or amount.

are wanting

Indicates something is missing or not up to par.

are subpar

Suggests performance or quality is below the expected level.

are inferior

Highlights that something is of lower quality or status.

are not enough

Directly states that the quantity or quality is not sufficient.

fall short

Implies a failure to reach a desired goal or standard.

do not measure up

Indicates a failure to meet expectations or requirements.

are found wanting

Suggests that something has been assessed and deemed inadequate.

FAQs

How can I use "are deficient" in a sentence?

The phrase "are deficient" is used to indicate a lack or insufficiency in something. For example, "The current resources "are deficient" in meeting the community's needs."

What can I say instead of "are deficient"?

You can use alternatives like "are lacking", "are inadequate", or "are insufficient" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are deficient" or "is deficient"?

"Are deficient" is used with plural subjects, while "is deficient" is used with singular subjects. For example, "The systems "are deficient"," but "The system is deficient."

What's the difference between "are deficient" and "are inadequate"?

While both indicate a lack, "are deficient" often implies a more fundamental lack of something essential, whereas "are inadequate" suggests a failure to meet a specific standard or requirement. The nuance depends on the context.