be wanting in

USAGE SUMMARY

"be wanting in" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate a lack of something or deficiency in a particular quality. Example: "The proposal was wanting in detail and clarity." Alternative expressions include "lacking in," "deficient in," and "short on."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Soldiers of Italy, will you be wanting in courage and steadfastness?

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is not just Renault that was shown to be wanting in the test of eight models.

The Guardian

But in real-world applications, these methods have been found to be wanting in terms of accuracy or conditions of application.

Soft Computing in Textile Engineering

It is encouraging to note that TCU has started to take stern measures against all public and private higher learning institutions found to be wanting in some critical aspects.

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

He thus draws the characteristic conclusion that "The least corpuscle is actually subdivided in infinitum and contains a world of other creatures which would be wanting in the universe if that corpuscle were an atom, that is, a body of one entire piece without subdivision" (G VII.377 378/AG 332).

SEP

Even the NVDRS is likely to be wanting in the documentation of comorbid psychopathology among suicides.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Q: Does that mean they could be wanted in the future.

The Guardian

Except in the case of a planned overhaul, spare parts will only be wanted in an emergency.

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

This is wanting, in Berridge's scheme.

The New Yorker

Then he is wanting in reverence, and should be whipped for it.

The New Yorker

Also, the equation is wanting in that it does not predict condensation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be wanting in" to politely point out a deficiency or area for improvement in a formal or semi-formal context.

Common error

Avoid using "be wanting in" in situations where a direct or harsh critique might be misconstrued. Opt for a more constructive phrasing to mitigate potential offense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be wanting in" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a deficiency or lack. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in describing shortcomings in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be wanting in" serves to indicate a deficiency or lack in something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and acceptable. It's most frequently found in science and news contexts. While versatile, remember to use it judiciously, particularly in sensitive situations where a more constructive tone is preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be deficient in

Replaces "wanting" with "deficient", emphasizing a lack or inadequacy.

be lacking in

Substitutes "wanting" with "lacking", directly indicating an absence of something.

fall short in

Uses a more dynamic verb phrase to convey a failure to meet a certain standard.

be inadequate in

Replaces "wanting" with "inadequate", highlighting insufficiency.

be insufficient in

Similar to "inadequate", but emphasizes not being enough.

be missing in

Focuses on the absence of something necessary.

be devoid of

Indicates a complete absence of something, often a quality.

be without

A simpler way to express the absence of something.

stand in need of

Suggests a requirement or necessity that is not currently met.

be bereft of

Implies a loss or deprivation of something important.

FAQs

How can I use "be wanting in" in a sentence?

You can use "be wanting in" to indicate that something lacks a particular quality or element. For example, "The presentation was "be wanting in" visual aids".

What are some alternatives to "be wanting in"?

Alternatives include "be lacking in", "be deficient in", or "fall short". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "be wanting in" formal or informal?

"Be wanting in" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, phrases like "missing" or "lacking" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "be wanting in" and "be lacking in"?

While similar, "be wanting in" can sometimes imply a more significant deficiency than "be lacking in". However, the terms are often used interchangeably.