Defficient

Deficient describes a state of lacking a necessary quality, component, or element; inadequate or insufficient. It implies a shortcoming or absence of something essential for proper function, completion, or satisfaction. This can apply to physical attributes, mental capacities, emotional states, financial resources, or any other measurable or observable aspect. The degree of deficiency can vary greatly, from a slight inadequacy to a complete absence, significantly impacting the overall result or outcome. Furthermore, 'deficient' often suggests a negative consequence arising from the lack, highlighting a problem or need for improvement or rectification. It conveys a sense of shortfall, imperfection, or incompleteness that requires attention or remedy.

Defficient meaning with examples

• The child's diet was deficient in vitamin D, leading to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. Medical professionals emphasized the importance of supplementation and a balanced nutritional intake to rectify the problem. Further tests were ordered to check for any other deficiencies and if the treatment would be effective.
• The company's marketing strategy was deficient in its understanding of the target demographic. This resulted in ineffective campaigns that failed to resonate with potential customers, damaging sales figures, and making it look bad on their performance reviews. They needed to conduct more in-depth research before any further strategies are put in place.
• The new software was found to be deficient in several critical security features, creating vulnerabilities that exposed user data to potential cyberattacks. The developers were tasked with urgently patching these deficiencies to protect sensitive information and maintain user trust. Regular updates were planned.
• After a thorough audit, the organization's financial reports were determined to be deficient in transparency and accurate record-keeping. The board demanded a full review of accounting procedures and recommended that changes be made to prevent future inaccuracies and ensure accountability. Several staff members were fired.