it is lacking

USAGE SUMMARY

'it is lacking' is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you wish to express that something is missing or inadequate. For example, "This essay is missing a conclusion; it is lacking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Juncker acknowledged the European Union was in a bad state, saying "it is lacking Europe and it is lacking Union".

Vice

Harnick said Arlington is maximizing its park space, but it is lacking in park acreage.

The Washington Post

But it is lacking Rodney Walker, its celebrated salesman, who moved on earlier this year to Untitled, a downtown store.

The New York Times - Style

It is lacking in its ability to screen the entire skeleton, as can be done with BS.

Duke University

The problem is that the younger generation hasn't lived through poverty, collectivism; it is lacking in restraint, its references are very few, the experience is so limited".

The New York Times - Magazine

What it is lacking is consistency.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is lacking from the world that was destroyed".

The New Yorker

"It is lacking those chief lieutenants of BANT, Tim Lovejoy, Danny Dyer and James Corden.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Furthermore, Donald Trump's solution on immigration resembles his credentials to lead this land--it is lacking and far from complete.

Huffington Post

It celebrates a vital principle, but it is lacking in rites and ritual.

The New York Times

It is lacking in balance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is lacking", ensure the subject and the missing element are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The proposal is lacking detail" is clearer than just "It is lacking."

Common error

Avoid using "it is lacking" without specifying what 'it' refers to. This can lead to confusion. Instead of saying "The project is lacking", specify what aspect of the project is deficient, like "The project is lacking a clear timeline."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is lacking" functions as a descriptive statement indicating a deficiency or absence of a specific quality or element. Ludwig AI identifies its correct usage across various domains, showcasing its role in pointing out inadequacies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

35%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is lacking" is a versatile expression used to indicate a deficiency or absence of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. While semantically similar alternatives like "it is missing" or "it falls short" exist, the choice depends on the desired nuance and formality. When using "it is lacking", ensure clarity by specifying what 'it' refers to, and be mindful of the context to choose the most appropriate synonym for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's missing

Uses a contraction, making it slightly more informal. "Missing" directly implies absence.

it's deficient

Replaces "lacking" with a more formal synonym, emphasizing inadequacy.

it doesn't have

Offers a simpler, more direct way to express the absence of something.

it is without

A more literary or formal way to state the absence of something.

it falls short

Focuses on not meeting a certain standard or expectation.

it requires

Indicates a need for something that is currently not present.

it's inadequate

Highlights the insufficiency of something for a specific purpose.

it's incomplete

Emphasizes that something is not finished or whole.

it is wanting

A somewhat archaic or formal way of saying something is missing or needed.

it needs

Highlights a requirement for something to be added or improved.

FAQs

How can I use "it is lacking" in a sentence?

Use "it is lacking" to indicate that something is missing or insufficient. For example, "The report is lacking crucial data", or "The plan, while innovative, "it is deficient" in practical application".

What can I say instead of "it is lacking"?

You can use alternatives like "it is missing", "it doesn't have", or "it falls short" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between saying "it is lacking" and "it lacks"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "it lacks" is more concise and direct. "It is lacking" can sometimes emphasize the deficiency more strongly. The best option depends on the desired tone and flow of your writing.

When is it appropriate to use "it is lacking" in formal writing?

"It is lacking" is suitable for formal writing when used to objectively point out a deficiency or absence. However, in highly formal contexts, stronger or more precise language might be preferred for emphasis or clarity. For instance, rather than “the evidence is lacking”, stating “the evidence is inconclusive” might be more direct.