serious deficiencies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious deficiencies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe significant shortcomings or inadequacies in a particular context, such as performance, quality, or compliance. Example: "The audit revealed serious deficiencies in the company's financial reporting practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The story had serious deficiencies.

The Washington Post

Manifestly, there have been serious deficiencies in global economic governance.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Some, in my view, have serious deficiencies," he said.

The New York Times

The two best available biographies have serious deficiencies.

The New York Times - Books

The resulting report identified a number of serious deficiencies.

The Washington Post

Applicants with serious deficiencies in preparation should be denied admission.

University of California, Berkeley

But there are other serious deficiencies in the federal system.

The Economist

"It has a lab with serious deficiencies," he said.

The New York Times

Analysis of the residuals obtained by the EVM procedure suggest serious deficiencies in the thermodynamic model.

Chemical Engineering Science

But at several turns, they challenged the agency's assertion of "numerous serious deficiencies" in their program.

The New York Times

Nationwide, about one-fifth of the homes were cited for serious deficiencies last year.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serious deficiencies", be specific about the areas in which the deficiencies exist to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "serious deficiencies" when the issues are minor or easily resolvable. Ensure the severity of the problem warrants such strong language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious deficiencies" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "serious" modifies the noun "deficiencies". It describes the nature and extent of inadequacies in a particular area. Ludwig examples show it is commonly used to point out flaws or problems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

24%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious deficiencies" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe significant shortcomings or inadequacies. As evidenced by Ludwig, it frequently appears in News & Media, Academic, and Scientific contexts. While alternatives like "major shortcomings" or "significant flaws" exist, "serious deficiencies" maintains a neutral to professional tone suitable for formal communication. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is widely accepted and understood, highlighting its importance in clearly conveying the presence of notable issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major shortcomings

Emphasizes the significance and impact of the deficiencies.

significant flaws

Focuses on the imperfections or faults present.

critical inadequacies

Highlights the essential needs that are not being met.

grave imperfections

Stresses the severity and seriousness of the imperfections.

substantial weaknesses

Points out areas where strength is lacking.

acute limitations

Draws attention to the sharpness and intensity of the restrictions.

severe faults

Highlights the harshness and unacceptability of the faults.

profound defects

Emphasizes the depth and fundamental nature of the defects.

major limitations

Focuses on the extent and impact of the limitations.

significant inadequacies

Highlights the noticeable and consequential insufficient aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "serious deficiencies" in a sentence?

You can use "serious deficiencies" to describe significant problems or inadequacies. For example: "The audit revealed "serious deficiencies" in the company's financial reporting."

What are some alternatives to "serious deficiencies"?

Alternatives include "major shortcomings", "significant flaws", or "critical inadequacies", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "serious deficiencies" in formal writing?

Yes, "serious deficiencies" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing significant problems in professional, academic, or official contexts.

What makes "serious deficiencies" different from "minor flaws"?

"Serious deficiencies" implies a significant and impactful problem, while "minor flaws" suggests small, less consequential issues. The choice depends on the severity of the situation being described.