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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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lacks back

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

'lacks back' is not a correct phrase in written English.
You would not use 'lacks back' in any context.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

To get both the big engine and that gearbox, you have to get the Accord Coupe, which has about the same interior dimensions as the TSX, but lacks back doors, so it's a less convenient car to own overall.

News & Media

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was a familiarity that came without conversation, a tenderness that lacked back and forth, an intimacy that was unearned.

News & Media

The New York Times

Jenny says more than 900 support staff have been taken out, which means officers lack back office support.

News & Media

The Guardian

The move, which coincides with its latest exhibition, #ComeTogether, in Brick Lane, east London, is also intended to give Saudi artists access to western art education and facilities that they lack back home.

Here's how.

News & Media

Huffington Post

Homes lacked back-up power generators.

News & Media

The Economist

Daniels not only dreamed up casting, developed scripts and attached directors for the films he produced but, lacking backing from a major studio, also had to find financing.

Defeating the terror group will depend on the militias, and that depends on Libya's existing factions falling into line behind a unity government which, lacking backing by the two parliaments, has sketchy constitutional authority.

News & Media

The Guardian

But efforts to unionize could be arduous for the factory workers, who currently lack backing from any existing unions, Narro said.

News & Media

Los Angeles Times

Rhode Island requires that children 6 and under sit in the rear unless the vehicle lacks a back seat.

News & Media

The New York Times

She likened her new digs to a Barbie house since it lacks a back wall.

News & Media

Huffington Post
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "lacks back" in formal writing. It is grammatically awkward and can be replaced with clearer alternatives such as "lacks support" or "is missing rear components".

Common error

A common mistake is to use "lacks back" literally when referring to missing components. Instead of saying "the chair lacks back", specify what kind of support is missing, for example, "the chair lacks lumbar support".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

77%

Authority and reliability

1.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacks back" functions as a descriptive phrase indicating a deficiency or absence of something at the rear or in a supporting role. However, Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is not a correct English phrase. The single example provided shows a situation where something is not at the back.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lacks back" is generally considered grammatically incorrect and awkward in standard English, as Ludwig AI confirms. Though it appears in various sources, it's infrequent and lacks a clear, established usage. When aiming to express the absence of a rear component or support, it's advisable to opt for more precise and grammatically sound alternatives such as "missing support", "lacking backing", or specifying the exact missing element for enhanced clarity and correctness. Prioritizing grammatical accuracy and precise word choice will ensure effective communication.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "lacks back" for clarity?

Instead of "lacks back", use phrases like "missing support", "deficient in backing", or specify the missing element: "lacks lumbar support".

Is "lacks back" grammatically correct?

No, "lacks back" is not a standard grammatical construction. It's better to use more precise and grammatically sound alternatives depending on the context.

What does "lacks back" mean in the context of product descriptions?

In product descriptions, "lacks back" is often intended to mean a feature or support is absent. Rephrase for clarity: "does not include back support" or "missing rear component".

Which is more appropriate, "lacks back" or "lacks support"?

"Lacks support" is more appropriate as it is grammatically correct and widely understood. "Lacks back" is awkward and should be avoided. For example: "This evidence "lacks backing"".

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Source & Trust

77%

Authority and reliability

1.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: