OpenSynonym

lacks

/læks/

VERB

1. Being without something

To not have, possess, or contain something that is necessary, desirable, or expected.

1.1. Possession and availability

Used to describe a person, organization, place, or thing that does not possess or have access to something.

Synonyms

  • does not have
  • is without
  • is missing
  • is devoid of
  • does not possess
  • is bereft of

Antonyms

Examples

  • The essay lacks a clear thesis statement, making it difficult to follow the argument.
  • Despite its appealing design, the new smartphone lacks essential features found in competitors.
  • The company lacks the technology needed to manufacture the product.

Related Words

VERB

2. Having insufficient amounts or resources

To have less than the required or desirable amount of something, such as money, supplies, time, or other resources.

2.1. Resources and supplies

Used when individuals, organizations, or communities have an inadequate supply of money, materials, equipment, or other essential resources.

Synonyms

  • is short of
  • is deficient in
  • is undersupplied with
  • needs
  • is lacking in

Antonyms

  • has enough
  • abounds in
  • is abundant in
  • is well supplied with
  • possesses

Examples

  • The budget proposal lacks sufficient funding for critical infrastructure projects.
  • The hospital lacks adequate medical supplies to handle the growing number of patients.
  • The organization lacks the financial resources to expand its operations.

Related Words

2.2. Qualities and characteristics

Used to indicate that a person, team, or organization does not have enough of a particular ability, quality, characteristic, or desirable attribute.

Synonyms

  • is deficient in
  • is short on
  • is wanting in
  • falls short of
  • is inadequate in

Antonyms

  • excels in
  • possesses
  • demonstrates
  • abounds in
  • is rich in

Examples

  • The team lacks cohesion, hindering their ability to work together effectively.
  • The candidate lacks the experience required for the senior management position.
  • His explanation lacks detail, leaving us with unanswered questions.

Related Words

2.3. Time and opportunities

Used when someone or something does not have sufficient time, opportunities, or favorable circumstances to accomplish a particular objective.

Synonyms

  • is short of
  • needs
  • is deficient in
  • is without

Antonyms

  • has plenty of
  • has sufficient
  • enjoys
  • possesses

Examples

  • The project lacks the time necessary for proper testing.
  • The students lack opportunities to gain practical work experience.

Related Words

VERB

3. Being in need or want

To be in a state of need or deprivation because something desirable or necessary is unavailable or insufficient.

3.1. Needs and requirements

Used to express that someone or something needs or requires a particular resource, condition, or element to function properly or achieve a purpose.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The new system lacks several features that users need.
  • The organization lacks additional funding to support its expansion.
  • The building lacks proper ventilation and requires improvements.

Related Words

NOUN

4. A deficiency or shortcoming

A missing or inadequate quality, characteristic, or element that represents a defect, failing, or weakness.

4.1. Defects and shortcomings

Used in the plural to refer to weaknesses, faults, or deficiencies in someone's character, abilities, behavior, or performance.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The assessment identified several lacks in the candidate's professional qualifications.

Related Words