what it lacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what it lacks" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a deficiency or absence of something. Example: The company's latest product has received positive reviews, but it is still lacking in what it truly needs - a strong marketing campaign.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What it lacks, building on its heritage of Dutch colonial pluralism, is religious conformity.

The New York Times

What it lacks in cohesiveness it makes up in its frankness, its quick-pivoting angularities.

The New York Times - Books

What it lacks, though, is the courage of its own convictions.

The Guardian

Its key selling points, though, are what it lacks: No port-a-potties.

Los Angeles Times

What it lacks is a fullness of wisdom about its characters' potential for growth.

The New York Times

What it lacks is culture.

The Economist

What it lacks is drama.

The Guardian

What it lacks is people.

The New York Times

What it lacks is the political will.

The New York Times

"What it lacks is absolutely any liquidity".

The New York Times

What it lacks is the acquiescence of Tibetans.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what it lacks", ensure the subject you are referring to is clearly defined in the context. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the reader understands what is being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "what it lacks" in overly simplistic sentences where a more direct statement would be clearer. For example, instead of saying "The car is fast, but what it lacks is comfort," consider "The car is fast but uncomfortable."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what it lacks" functions as a noun clause acting as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and specifies the deficiency or missing element of a particular subject, as demonstrated in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what it lacks" is a versatile tool for identifying deficiencies and areas needing improvement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media. While appropriate for many contexts, remember that more formal settings might benefit from a more specialized vocabulary. When using "what it lacks", clarity is key; ensure that the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. By understanding its function and purpose, you can use "what it lacks" effectively to convey insightful critiques and observations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

its shortcomings

This alternative directly points to the defects or deficiencies of something.

its deficiencies

This alternative highlights the areas where something is not adequate or sufficient.

its weaknesses

This alternative focuses on the aspects where something is vulnerable or not strong.

its limitations

This alternative emphasizes the boundaries or constraints of something.

where it falls short

This alternative idiomatically expresses the idea of not meeting a certain standard or expectation.

what it's missing

This alternative uses a more direct and conversational tone to indicate absence.

its areas for improvement

This alternative focuses on the potential for growth and development in specific areas.

aspects it needs

This alternative emphasizes the necessary components or qualities that are currently absent.

where it is deficient

This alternative highlights specific areas where something is inadequate or lacking.

the absent qualities

This alternative concentrates on the qualities or attributes that are not present.

FAQs

How can I use "what it lacks" in a sentence?

You can use "what it lacks" to point out the missing qualities or features of something, as in, "The design is innovative, but "what it lacks" is practicality."

What's a more concise way to express the same idea as "what it lacks"?

Alternatives include phrases like "its shortcomings", "its deficiencies", or "its limitations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "what it lacks" or "what it is lacking"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "what it lacks" is generally more concise and frequently used. "What it is lacking" can sometimes sound more emphatic, but may also be perceived as slightly more verbose.

Can "what it lacks" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "what it lacks" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, although in highly formal or academic contexts, you might consider using more precise vocabulary to describe the deficiency, such as "its shortcomings" or "its limitations".