lacking commitment

USAGE SUMMARY

"lacking commitment" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is not devoted or dedicated, and likely to waver or change their mind. For example, "The team was lacking commitment to the project, often changing their minds on deadlines and goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Some leftwingers and trade unionists, irked by the address's religiosity, called it "messianic" and lacking commitment to the means of righting the world's wrongs.

The Guardian

"For this badge you have to die on the stands and on the pitch," it read – reproach for players accused of lacking commitment.

The Guardian - Sport

He has also endured his share of controversy and criticism, especially when Landon Donovan accused him of lacking commitment and being a poor teammate.

The New York Times - Sports

José Mourinho accused his Manchester United players of lacking commitment and said they deserved to lose against Fenerbahce for treating Thursday's Europa League group game as a "summer friendly".

The Guardian - Sport

The intro sequence asks us to image what would happen if animals "decided to fight back" but most species seem to be lacking commitment to this all-out war.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Indeed, many natives have been condemned for lacking commitment to the cause, not least Mario Balotelli, who was heavily rebuked for a supposed lack of hunger and desire to play for the shirt after defeats to Costa Rica and Uruguay in Brazil last summer.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But USA Basketball is still lacking commitments from four first-team all-N.B.A. players -- Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, Jason Kidd and Kevin Garnett.

The New York Times - Sports

"Moderation is for people who lack commitment, O.K.?" he said, with a smile.

The New York Times - Sports

If he brags, he is deemed arrogant; if he appears slow to anger, he lacks commitment.

The New York Times - Sports

Even the ones hanging out in Camden Lock, amid a sea of Che Guevara T-shirts, seem to lack commitment.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I just lacked commitment today, the freedom I had, that I've been having with every part of my game.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lacking commitment", clearly specify the area or task to which the commitment is deficient to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "the team is lacking commitment", specify "the team is lacking commitment to meeting deadlines".

Common error

Avoid using "lacking commitment" as a blanket statement without providing specific examples or context. This can come across as accusatory and unhelpful. Instead, pinpoint the behaviors or actions that demonstrate the lack of commitment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacking commitment" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing a deficiency or absence of dedication. It is commonly used to express criticism or concern regarding someone's level of engagement or investment, as Ludwig examples show.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Academia

8%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lacking commitment" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a deficiency in dedication or engagement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, from news reports to scientific analyses. While widely understood, it's most effective when used with specificity to avoid overgeneralizations. Consider alternatives like "uncommitted" or "deficient in dedication" for nuanced expression. When providing feedback, concentrate on behaviors and concrete examples to create a clearer message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncommitted

A more concise and direct synonym, indicating a lack of dedication.

without dedication

Directly states the absence of dedication.

deficient in dedication

Emphasizes the absence of a necessary level of dedication.

lacking resolve

Similar to "wanting in resolve", but more straightforward.

wanting in resolve

Highlights a deficiency in firmness of purpose or determination.

wavering in conviction

Indicates a lack of firmness in one's beliefs or opinions.

devoid of engagement

Focuses on the absence of active participation or involvement.

half-hearted

Suggests a lack of enthusiasm or zeal.

apathetic

Indicates a lack of interest or concern.

negligent in duty

Implies a failure to fulfill responsibilities due to a lack of commitment.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "lacking commitment" in a more positive way?

Instead of saying someone is "lacking commitment", you could say they "need more support", "are still exploring their options", or "haven't yet found their passion". These phrases are less accusatory and more encouraging.

What does it mean when someone is described as "lacking commitment"?

It typically means they are not fully dedicated or invested in a particular goal, task, or relationship. This could manifest as a lack of effort, inconsistent behavior, or a reluctance to make sacrifices.

Which is more appropriate, saying someone is "uncommitted" or "lacking commitment"?

Both are acceptable, but "uncommitted" is more concise and direct. "Lacking commitment" provides a bit more emphasis on the deficiency of commitment.

How to address a team member who is "lacking commitment" without being confrontational?

Focus on specific behaviors and their impact, rather than making a general accusation. For example, "I've noticed that deadlines have been missed recently, and I'm concerned about the impact on the project. How can we work together to improve this?"