lacking a degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lacking a degree" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who does not possess a formal academic qualification or degree in a specific field. Example: "Although he is lacking a degree, his extensive experience in the industry makes him a strong candidate for the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In the technology field, it sometimes seems that lacking a degree is a requirement for future success.

The New York Times

Ladies with sparse or no pubic hair, or lacking a degree of "smelly" – get to the back of the womanhood queue: according to the great feminist icon, your genitals betray your gender.

The Guardian - Opinion

Has had better days Willian 7/10 Provided a couple of decent passes for Rémy in the first half but found it tricky to get past Monreal, who offered him little space to run into Eden Hazard 6/10 Lethargic for the most part and lacking a degree of sharpness.

The Guardian - Sport

As the Republican Party increasingly becomes the party of those without degrees, their leaders may feel pressure to champion policies that benefit working class voters — often defined as those lacking a degree — more than those with professional careers resulting from a college education.

The Washington Post

She address the question, "lacking a degree program in the university dedicated to SE, what is the best way to give students a taste of SE that makes them want more?" Success of the efforts to date has been indicated by a 100% employment in Norway of all students who demonstrate an awareness of and willingness to learn more about SE.

Procedia Computer Science

This is no longer a country making cheapo kitchenware, but a land that is heading to the top, even if, in the less pricey suburbs and the countryside, there is a lot of semi-disguised poverty for an older generation lacking a degree and a business suit.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But his performance of Schumann's "Kreisleriana" suggested that he lacked a degree of musical maturity.

The New York Times - Arts

The playing, though often admirable, lacked a degree of focus and energy.

The New York Times - Arts

It lacked a degree of rhythmic incisiveness, and sometimes entrances were unclear.

The New York Times - Arts

If she lacked a degree of ultimate command, she conveyed a sense of discovery that was more exciting.

The New York Times - Arts

One issue with "Elektra" is that, for all its splendid ferocity, it lacks a degree of internal tension.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lacking a degree", ensure the context clearly indicates what the degree is relevant to. For example, "lacking a degree in engineering" provides more clarity than simply "lacking a degree".

Common error

Avoid using "lacking a degree" as a blanket statement to dismiss someone's capabilities. A degree is not always the sole determinant of competence or expertise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacking a degree" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, typically a person or their qualifications. It describes the state of not possessing a formal academic qualification. Ludwig shows its use in various sentence structures to indicate a deficiency.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lacking a degree" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned adjectival phrase used to describe the absence of a formal academic qualification. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and prevalence in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "without a degree" exist, the core meaning remains consistent. It's important to use the phrase judiciously, avoiding generalizations and ensuring clarity in its application. Understanding its purpose and potential implications is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Without a degree

Simple substitution of "lacking" with "without", maintaining the core meaning.

Not having a degree

Simple change in construction, maintains same meaning.

Missing a degree

Focuses on absence of something, like "lacking".

Not holding a degree

Replaces "lacking" with a more formal verb phrase, implying the absence of possession.

Degree-less

Condenses the phrase into a single adjective, emphasizing the absence of a degree.

Uncredentialed

Uses a more formal and general term, applicable to various types of credentials, not just degrees.

In the absence of a degree

Uses a more formal phrase to express the same idea.

Not qualified

Focuses on the implication of not having a degree – a lack of qualification.

Lacking formal education

Broadens the scope to include any type of formal education, not just a degree.

Without formal qualifications

More generic expression for not having formal qualifications.

FAQs

How can I use "lacking a degree" in a sentence?

You can use "lacking a degree" to describe someone who doesn't have a formal academic qualification. For example: "Despite "lacking a degree", his experience made him a valuable asset."

What are some alternatives to saying "lacking a degree"?

Alternatives include "without a degree", "not holding a degree", or simply stating that someone is "unqualified" for a specific role if the degree is a necessary qualification.

Is it always a disadvantage to be "lacking a degree"?

Not always. While a degree can open doors, experience, skills, and talent can sometimes compensate for "lacking a degree", especially in certain fields.

Which is more formal: "lacking a degree" or "without a degree"?

"Lacking a degree" and "without a degree" are fairly interchangeable in terms of formality. The surrounding context and vocabulary will influence the overall tone of your writing more significantly.