lacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the absence or deficiency of something in a subject or object. Example: "The report lacks sufficient data to support its conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Humanity has the ability to tackle climate change – it just lacks the inclination.

The Guardian

John Fund, a commentator for the conservative magazine National Review, described the speech as "meandering and often bizarre", and said that Palin "clearly lacks the discipline for a full-fledged campaign".

The Guardian

And it lacks the Big Apple's attitude – I don't think we ate anywhere that diners at neighbouring tables didn't chat, offering restaurant advice and gossip, and even – when our taxis failed to show – lifts to our destination.

The Guardian - Travel

They are worried his rhetoric to take over government nationally will bring a defensive, authoritarian response from the incumbent government and that his young coalition lacks the experience to address the growing national problems exacerbated by Abdullah's mismanagement.

The Guardian - Opinion

What Osborne lacks is a vision of the structures and institutions that could feasibly sit behind the grand statements he makes about wanting more "doers and makers".

The Guardian - Opinion

What the competition lacks in Brits (for the first time in five years, we've no one in the running) it makes up for in US auteurs – Soderbergh, Payne, the Coens.

The Guardian - Film

What it lacks in actual stars it makes up for in 1920s style, and rooms are from $95. Or try the Standard Hollywood (00 1 323 650 9090; www.standardhotel.com) on Sunset Boulevard, which has some bargain rooms from $135.

The Guardian - Travel

Ralph is a villain who lacks the villainous gene, a heavy who dreams of lightness.

The Guardian - Film

But she lacks experience at the very top, and on two of three issues, notably immigration, her position was fragile.

The Guardian

Against France she was the spearhead of an England pack that lacks the power it had when the now retired Maggie Alphonsi was smashing every breakdown in sight but the 21-year-old lock is not the only youngster to demonstrate she has a long international future ahead of her.

The Guardian - Sport

Although entertaining enough, Lewis Elmer Gantryy lacks any real depth; a single drum banged loudly and repeatedly.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lacks", ensure you clearly specify what is missing or deficient to provide clarity and context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "lacks" without specifying what is missing. For example, instead of saying "The plan lacks", specify "The plan lacks detail" to provide a clearer understanding.

Linguistic Context

The word "lacks" primarily functions as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of 'lack'. It indicates that something is missing or deficient. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts to point out deficiencies or absences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Opinion

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Travel

5%

Music

4%

Books

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "lacks" is a versatile verb indicating the absence or deficiency of something. As shown by Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, the usage tends toward the more formal depending on the subject matter. To ensure clarity in writing, it is recommended to specify what exactly "lacks" from the subject at hand. As per Ludwig AI, the term is correct and widely applicable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is missing

Simply states that something is not present.

does not have

A straightforward way of indicating absence.

is without

Highlights the complete absence of something.

does not possess

Formally states that something does not have a particular attribute.

is deficient in

Emphasizes a specific area where something is inadequate.

is inadequate in

Highlights the insufficiency of something for a specific purpose.

is devoid of

Indicates a complete emptiness or absence of a quality.

is wanting in

Suggests a need or requirement that is not met.

is short on

Implies a limited quantity or insufficient amount.

falls short of

Indicates a failure to reach a required standard or level.

FAQs

How can I use "lacks" in a sentence?

Use "lacks" to indicate the absence or deficiency of something. For example, "The report "lacks" sufficient data to support its conclusions."

What can I say instead of "lacks"?

You can use alternatives like "is missing", "does not have", or "is deficient in" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "lacks" or "is missing"?

Both "lacks" and "is missing" are correct, but "lacks" often implies a more significant deficiency than simply stating that something is not present.

What's the difference between "lacks" and "is devoid of"?

"Lacks" suggests an absence, while "is devoid of" implies a complete emptiness or absence of a quality.