Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
looks deficient
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "looks deficient" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that appears to be lacking or insufficient in quality, quantity, or effectiveness. Example: "The report looks deficient in data analysis, which may affect the overall conclusions drawn."
✓ Grammatically correct
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
In less than two minutes, I accessed an instructional video from Khan Academy that refreshed my memory and saved me from looking deficient in front of my child.
News & Media
In addition, we are looking at mice deficient in transcription factors required for B cell differentiation.
Academia
It simply wouldn't do to look or feel deficient in these most basic characteristics" (Mindsets, p.6).
Academia
In addition, this approach has allowed the identification of a new factor, Usb1p, involved in the biogenesis of respiratory complexes, which could not have been found using classical genetic screens looking for respiratory deficient mutants.
Science
The Cadzow algorithm (Cadzow 1988) looks for the closest rank deficient matrix which is Toeplitz.
Science
Tough one, but I'm gonna go with Andy Warhol fans, the potassium-deficient, and anyone who looks good in cream-colored accessories.
News & Media
"For someone like Roger Clemens, who certainly looks robust, the likelihood that he would be deficient in vitamin B12 is a stretch," Groopman said, noting that he had not seen Clemens's medical records.
News & Media
The chapter includes examples to illustrate well- and poorly designed websites and looks at the accessibility of websites for colour-deficient users.
The chapter includes examples to illustrate good as well as poorly designed websites and looks at the accessibility of websites for colour-deficient users.
So it looks like pleasure and utility friendships are at best deficient modes of friendship; by contrast, virtue friendships, because they are motivated by the excellences of your friend's character, are genuine, non-deficient friendships.
Science
You will be able to tell if your plant is nutrient deficient by looking at the leaves.
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "looks deficient", ensure that the context clearly identifies what specific quality or aspect is lacking to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "looks deficient" without specifying the area of deficiency. For example, instead of saying "The plan looks deficient", specify "The plan looks deficient in financial projections."
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "looks deficient" functions as a copular verb ("looks") followed by a predicate adjective ("deficient"). It describes the apparent state or condition of a subject, indicating that it appears to be lacking something.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "looks deficient" is a grammatically correct way to express that something appears to be lacking or inadequate. While examples are currently limited in Ludwig, the phrase is readily understandable. If you are using this phrase in writing, always provide specific context of what you are talking about. For related terms, consider options like "appears inadequate" or "seems lacking", which offer similar meanings.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
appears inadequate
Focuses on the inadequacy of the appearance rather than a specific deficiency.
seems lacking
Emphasizes the missing aspects that contribute to the deficiency in appearance.
presents as inadequate
Highlights the presentation or outward impression of inadequacy.
looks insufficient
Similar to inadequate, but emphasizes a lack of sufficiency.
gives the impression of being inadequate
Focuses on the impression created by the appearance of deficiency.
has the appearance of inadequacy
Stresses the outward semblance of being inadequate.
seems to fall short
Indicates a failure to meet a certain standard or expectation in appearance.
appears to be wanting
Highlights that something essential seems to be missing.
gives an impression of incompleteness
Focuses on the aspect of lacking completeness in appearance.
projects a sense of inadequacy
Emphasizes how the appearance outwardly conveys inadequacy.
FAQs
How can I use "looks deficient" in a sentence?
Use "looks deficient" to describe something that appears to be lacking or inadequate in some way. For example, "The report "looks deficient" in its data analysis section".
What are some alternatives to saying "looks deficient"?
You can use alternatives such as "appears inadequate", "seems lacking", or "appears insufficient" depending on the specific context.
Is it better to use "appears deficient" instead of "looks deficient"?
Both phrases are acceptable, but ""looks deficient"" is generally more informal. "Appears deficient" might be preferred in formal or professional writing.
What does it mean when something "looks deficient"?
It means that, based on its appearance, something seems to be lacking a necessary or desirable quality, quantity, or element.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested