we lack

USAGE SUMMARY

"We lack" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to express an absence or deficiency of something. Example: "We lack the necessary resources to complete this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We lack identity and vitality.

The New Yorker

We lack equipment, we lack bodybags".

The Guardian

"We lack the necessary capacities".

The New York Times

"We lack mentors.

The New York Times

That's what we lack.

The New Yorker

We lack angel investors.

The New York Times

"We lack leadership.

The New York Times - Sports

"What we lack is proper implementation.

The New York Times

Instead, we love because we lack.

The New Yorker

Like many smaller clubs we lack depth.

Independent

"We lack doctors, paramedics and medicines.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we lack", be specific about what is missing and the consequences of that deficiency. For example, "We lack the funding to complete the project, which will delay the deadline."

Common error

Avoid using "we lack" without clearly specifying what is missing. For instance, instead of saying "We lack something", specify "We lack the necessary equipment."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we lack" functions as a statement of deficiency or absence. According to Ludwig, it expresses a condition where something is missing or insufficient. The examples illustrate this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we lack" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express a deficiency or absence of something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and business, as shown in the provided examples. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about what is missing to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "we are deficient in" for a more formal tone or "we haven't got" for an informal context. Overall, "we lack" is a versatile phrase for clearly communicating a need or shortfall.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are deficient in

Replaces "lack" with a more formal synonym "deficient", highlighting a specific area of inadequacy.

we are short of

Indicates a scarcity or insufficient amount of something.

we do not have enough

A more explicit way of stating the insufficiency of something.

we are without

Emphasizes the complete absence of something.

our resources are insufficient

Focuses on the inadequacy of available resources.

we are wanting in

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "we lack".

we require more

Shifts the focus to the need for something, implying the current absence.

we are missing

Indicates that something is absent or not present.

we haven't got

An informal equivalent, common in British English.

we find ourselves wanting

A more reflective and subjective way of expressing a lack.

FAQs

How can I use "we lack" in a sentence?

The phrase "we lack" is used to express a deficiency or absence of something. For example, "we lack the resources" or "we lack experience".

What can I say instead of "we lack"?

You can use alternatives like "we are deficient in", "we do not have enough", or "we are missing" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "we lack" or "we are deficient in"?

"We are deficient in" is generally considered more formal than "we lack". Use "we are deficient in" in academic or professional contexts where a higher degree of formality is appropriate.

What's the difference between "we lack" and "we need"?

"We lack" emphasizes the absence of something, whereas "we need" emphasizes the requirement for something. "We lack resources" focuses on the current deficiency, while "we need resources" highlights the necessity of obtaining them.