we are lacking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are lacking" is correct and usable in written English.
It generally means that we don't have enough of something. For example: "We are lacking resources to complete this project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are lacking basic needs.

The Guardian

If anything, we are lacking doubt.

The New Yorker

"We are lacking the days to negotiate".

The Guardian

We are lacking a safe space for us.

The Guardian - Arts

"In certain roles in attack we are lacking," Mancini told Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Guardian - Sport

And we are lacking the words to describe what this really means.

The New York Times

"It's not that we are lacking compassion, but the economics are tough".

The New York Times

"I prefer to play tennis and have tranquillity, which in many cases we are lacking.

The New York Times - Sports

On the other hand we are lacking in sports facilities, recreational areas and programs for children.

The New York Times

We know all the information needed, it's the perspective we are lacking.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We are lacking for someone to provide us a holistic picture of VOD.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are lacking", ensure clarity regarding what is missing. Be specific about the deficiency to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "We are lacking", specify "We are lacking skilled personnel for this project".

Common error

Avoid using "we are lacking" without clearly stating what is absent. This can lead to confusion and vagueness. Always specify the missing element for better communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are lacking" functions as a declarative statement expressing a deficiency or absence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts to highlight missing elements or resources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are lacking" is a versatile phrase used to express a deficiency or absence of something. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It's prevalent in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, indicating its broad applicability. Alternatives include "we are short of" and "we lack", offering variations in tone and emphasis. When using "we are lacking", clarity is key; specify what is missing to avoid ambiguity. This phrase is frequently found in authoritative sources like The Guardian, The New York Times, and BBC, confirming its widespread acceptance and use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are short of

Indicates a deficiency in quantity or amount; suggests a need for more of something.

we are deficient in

Highlights a lack of essential qualities or components; emphasizes a critical absence.

we have a shortage of

Focuses on the insufficient supply of something necessary; emphasizes a scarcity.

we do not have enough

States directly the inadequacy of the available amount; straightforward and clear.

we are in need of

Expresses a requirement or necessity for something; suggests a pressing demand.

we require more

Indicates that the current quantity is insufficient and additional resources are needed.

we are experiencing a deficit

Describes an imbalance where there is less than what is needed; implies an undesirable state.

we are without

Emphasizes the absence of something; suggests a complete lack or deprivation.

our resources are insufficient

Highlights the inadequacy of available resources; emphasizes a limitation in capability.

we fail to possess

Formally indicates the absence of ownership or availability; suggests a lack of control or access.

FAQs

How can I use "we are lacking" in a sentence?

Use "we are lacking" to express a deficiency or absence of something. For example, "We are lacking the resources to complete the project", or "We are lacking expertise in this area".

What's a more formal alternative to "we are lacking"?

More formal alternatives include "we are deficient in" or "we have a shortage of". These options convey a similar meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

Is it correct to say "we lack" instead of "we are lacking"?

Yes, "we lack" is a correct and often more concise alternative to "we are lacking". Both phrases indicate a deficiency, but "we lack" is generally more direct.

What's the difference between "we are lacking" and "we need"?

While both express a need, "we are lacking" emphasizes the absence of something currently, whereas "we need" focuses on a requirement or necessity that may or may not be currently absent. For example, "We are lacking funding" highlights a current deficit, while "We need funding" states a requirement for future actions.