lack of swiftness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of swiftness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or action that is slow or not quick enough. Example: "The lack of swiftness in the response to the emergency led to further complications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"A lack of swiftness in policy response to China's fast deteriorating employment situation could cost the economy heavily, in the way of consumer consumption and social stability," Mr. Qu of HSBC said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The original, sweeping, billion-dollar plan to purchase an iPad for every student and teacher was passed by the board with a disturbing swiftness and lack of critical thinking.

Los Angeles Times

That refinement does not come at the expense of swiftness, though.

BBC

Besides, the layout must enable the most frequent interventions to be performed with equal levels of swiftness and comfort.

BMC Health Services Research

Tenants were upset by the swiftness of the board's approval of the increases and what they called a lack of public involvement.

The New York Times

Lack of effort, lack of concentration".

The New York Times - Sports

Or lack of one.

Independent

Lack of activities.

The New York Times

Lack of education.

The New York Times

Lack of familiarity helps.

The New York Times - Arts

Lack of passion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing response times or efficiency, consider using "lack of swiftness" to underscore the seriousness of the delay. For example, "The "lack of swiftness" in addressing customer complaints led to a decline in satisfaction."

Common error

While "lack of swiftness" is appropriate in formal contexts, avoid using it in casual conversations. Simpler terms like "slowness" or "delay" are often more suitable and natural in everyday speech.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of swiftness" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a deficiency or absence of speed or promptness. For instance, in the provided example, it refers to a shortcoming in policy response.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of swiftness" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a deficiency in speed or promptness. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's most commonly found in news and media contexts, often emphasizing problems or areas needing improvement. While the phrase is considered acceptable, simpler alternatives such as "slowness" or "delay" may be more appropriate in informal settings. It's important to recognize the potential for misinterpretation and to select the most appropriate wording based on the audience and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of promptness

Highlights the absence of immediate action or readiness.

lack of haste

Emphasizes the absence of hurriedness, which can be either positive or negative depending on context.

absence of speed

Focuses on the complete absence of speed rather than a deficiency.

deficiency in quickness

Highlights a shortage of quickness, emphasizing inadequacy.

absence of velocity

Specifically refers to the lack of speed in a measurable or scientific context.

slowness

A more direct and simple term for the lack of speed.

want of speed

A more formal or literary way of expressing a lack of speed.

lethargy

Suggests a state of inactivity and slowness due to tiredness or lack of energy.

delay

Emphasizes the postponement or slowing down of an action or process.

tardiness

Implies lateness or a lack of punctuality in terms of time.

FAQs

What does "lack of swiftness" mean?

The phrase "lack of swiftness" refers to a deficiency or absence of speed or promptness. It indicates that something is not happening quickly or efficiently enough.

How can I use "lack of swiftness" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of swiftness" to describe a delay or inefficiency. For example: "The "lack of swiftness" in the government's response to the crisis was heavily criticized."

What are some alternatives to "lack of swiftness"?

Alternatives to "lack of swiftness" include "absence of speed", "deficiency in quickness", "slowness", and "delay". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "lack of swiftness" a formal or informal phrase?

"Lack of swiftness" is generally considered a more formal phrase. In informal contexts, simpler terms like "slowness" or "delay" might be more appropriate.