significant deficiency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant deficiency" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in formal or technical contexts, such as in a report or a legal document, to describe a serious problem or flaw. Example: "After conducting a thorough audit of the company's financial records, we identified a significant deficiency in their accounting procedures, which could potentially lead to inaccurate reporting and financial misstatements."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Significant deficiency of some existing models is revealed.

Composite Structures

Significant deficiency of some existing models are shown.

Composite Structures

Reporting immediately to the Secretary on any significant deficiency in the compliance described by paragraph (14).

Cornell University

"Perhaps the most significant deficiency was the lack of availability of cardiological advice and assistance to the surgeons in the operating theatre".

The Guardian

But at the start of this new medical year, a significant deficiency remains in the system: the way in which doctors are trained to think.

The New York Times

Furthermore a significant deficiency is observed in bid evaluation involving triple bottom line of sustainability.

Journal of Cleaner Production

However, inaccurate liquid density predictions remain a significant deficiency in these equations.

Fluid Phase Equilibria

Most buildings are not rectangular and so this is a significant deficiency.

Computers & Structures

The past four annual audits have cited "ineffective controls over property and equipment" as a "significant deficiency" in the House, records show.

The Washington Post

Lake quotes a government study from 1998 that claims that "the single most significant deficiency in the nation's ability to combat terrorism is a lack of information, particularly regarding domestic terrorism".

The New York Times - Books

"The most significant deficiency in the implementation of the trial was the obtaining of consent," said one finding.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "significant deficiency", ensure it is followed by a clear explanation of what is deficient and the impact of that deficiency. This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "significant deficiency" for minor issues. Reserve this phrase for situations where the deficiency has a substantial impact or poses a real risk. Overusing it can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant deficiency" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "deficiency". According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is used to identify and emphasize a notable inadequacy or flaw.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

29%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "significant deficiency" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is employed to highlight notable inadequacies or flaws. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by explaining the deficiency and its impact. Alternatives include "major shortcoming", "substantial defect", and "serious flaw", each with slightly different nuances. Avoid overusing the phrase for minor issues to maintain its impact. The phrase is common across various authoritative sources, confirming its widespread use and acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major shortcoming

Replaces "deficiency" with "shortcoming" and "significant" with "major", implying a notable flaw.

substantial defect

Substitutes "deficiency" with "defect" and "significant" with "substantial", indicating a considerable imperfection.

serious flaw

Replaces "significant deficiency" with a more direct expression, highlighting a grave imperfection.

considerable inadequacy

Uses "inadequacy" instead of "deficiency" and "considerable" for "significant", denoting a notable lack of something.

marked weakness

Substitutes "deficiency" with "weakness" and "significant" with "marked", emphasizing a prominent vulnerability.

notable failing

Replaces "significant deficiency" with a phrase highlighting a conspicuous failure or shortcoming.

glaring omission

Uses "omission" instead of "deficiency" and "glaring" for "significant", indicating an obvious exclusion or absence.

critical fault

Substitutes "deficiency" with "fault" and "significant" with "critical", emphasizing a crucial error or defect.

pronounced lack

Replaces "significant deficiency" with a phrase highlighting a distinct absence or shortage.

severe limitation

Uses "limitation" instead of "deficiency" and "severe" for "significant", denoting a serious constraint or restriction.

FAQs

How can I use "significant deficiency" in a sentence?

The phrase "significant deficiency" is typically used to describe a notable flaw or inadequacy. For example, "The audit revealed a "significant deficiency" in the company's security protocols."

What are some alternatives to saying "significant deficiency"?

You can use alternatives such as "major shortcoming", "substantial defect", or "serious flaw" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "significant deficiency" or "major deficiency"?

Both "significant deficiency" and "major deficiency" are acceptable. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis. "Significant" emphasizes importance, while "major" emphasizes size or scope.

What's the difference between "significant deficiency" and "minor deficiency"?

"Significant deficiency" refers to a notable and impactful flaw, while "minor deficiency" indicates a small and less consequential issue. The distinction lies in the severity and potential impact of the deficiency.