relatively lacking

USAGE SUMMARY

"relatively lacking" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to suggest that something is less than it should be, or less than it could be. For example: "The school's library was relatively lacking compared to other institutions in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But because of the less well-funded infrastructure there and relatively lacking media interest, we might never had heard of it.

Independent

(Apes and monkeys, like children, though clearly intelligent and capable of forethought and planning, are relatively lacking in frontal lobes, and tend to do the first thing that occurs to them, rather than pausing to reflect. Such impulsivity can be striking in patients with frontal-lobe damage).

The New Yorker

"Fences," a Pulitzer winner in 1987 and one of Wilson's most plot-driven dramas, is relatively lacking in his trademark poetry, yet a couple of high points belong to Mr. Henderson's Jim Bono, the fellow garbage man and devoted friend of the main character, Troy Maxson (Denzel Washington), since their years in prison together.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, studies using the single-cell gel electrophoresis (the comet assay) to measure the special influences of parasitic infection on the DNA damage are relatively lacking.

The Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology

Although initial results were promising, long-term technical success rates are still relatively lacking and have been reported to be as low as 10%[17]].

Insights into Imaging

Within the hierarchy of levels of explanation, psychological explanations are more abstract than biological ones, being relatively lacking in concrete, physically grounded detail (e.g. Dennett, 1971).

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

However, compared to the intensive theoretical studies on the ideal or lithographed QRs, the studies addressing the self-assembled QRs are relatively lacked.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Consequently, the systematic investigation on the shape, configuration, and density control of Au nanostructures can offer a valuable basis for the relevant applications, however, which still relatively lacks by now.

Nanoscale Research Letters

It is assumed that the biodegraded lignin relatively lacks specific phenolic units, thereby enhancing enzymatic hydrolysis.

Biotechnology for Biofuels

The temporal stability characteristics were relatively lack in a state of transition from wet to dry.

Journal of Hydrology

At the same time, students showed a relatively lack of interactional functions.

Language Testing in Asia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, consider quantifying the degree to which something is "relatively lacking". For example, instead of stating "the data is relatively lacking", you might say "the data is relatively lacking in specific demographic information".

Common error

Avoid using "relatively lacking" as a vague placeholder for a more precise description. Replace it with specific details about what is missing or deficient to give your writing more clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively lacking" functions as an adjectival modifier, indicating a degree of deficiency or incompleteness. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in academic and news contexts, suggesting a lack or shortage in a specified area.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "relatively lacking" is a useful phrase for expressing a qualified deficiency, indicating that something is less than it could or should be, especially when making comparisons. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its applications span from scientific research to news reporting, demonstrating its versatility in formal and neutral contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to provide a clear point of reference to specify what it is lacking in relation to. Be mindful of overuse and consider more precise descriptions to enhance clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat deficient

Indicates a mild degree of inadequacy or incompleteness, differing in the level of intensity from the original phrase.

comparatively scarce

Highlights the limited availability in comparison to something else, focusing on quantity rather than a general deficiency.

moderately inadequate

Emphasizes a functional shortfall, suggesting that something is not quite up to par.

fairly limited

Points to a restriction in scope or extent, suggesting a boundary or constraint.

relatively insufficient

Stresses the inadequacy in meeting a particular need or requirement, putting emphasis on necessity.

partially absent

Implies that something is not completely there, focusing on the missing elements.

not entirely complete

Highlights the unfinished state, suggesting that further additions or refinements are needed.

to some extent wanting

A more formal way of indicating a lack, which may be suitable in specific, often literary, contexts.

comparatively wanting

Indicates that something falls short when compared to a standard or expectation.

somewhat incomplete

Suggests that something is not fully realized or finalized, requiring further steps for completion.

FAQs

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

You can use "relatively lacking" to indicate that something is deficient or missing in comparison to something else. For example: "The research on this topic is "relatively lacking" compared to other areas in the field."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "relatively lacking"?

Alternatives include phrases like "somewhat deficient", "comparatively scarce", or "moderately inadequate", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. See also: "somewhat deficient", "comparatively scarce", "moderately inadequate".

Is it better to say "relatively lacking" or "absolutely lacking"?

The choice depends on the context. "Absolutely lacking" indicates a complete absence, while "relatively lacking" suggests a deficiency compared to a certain standard. If something is entirely absent, use "absolutely lacking"; otherwise, "relatively lacking" is more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "relatively lacking" in formal writing?

It is appropriate to use "relatively lacking" in formal writing when you want to express a deficiency or absence in comparison to a certain standard, without making an absolute claim. Ensure the context clearly defines what the comparison is being made to. You can use "to some extent wanting" instead in formal contexts.