deficiency
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
A lack of something needed, especially an important nutrient or quality.
Synonyms and antonyms
Usage notes
"Deficiency" is common in medical contexts, as in "vitamin deficiency".
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The doctor said her constant tiredness was caused by an iron _____."
Answer: deficiency
In your own words, what does "deficiency" mean?
A lack of something needed, especially an important nutrient or quality.
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