deficit

[def-uh-sit, dih-fis-it] / ˈdɛf ə sɪt, dɪˈfɪs ɪt /

NOUN

shortage of something needed, required

Synonyms

STRONGEST

loss shortfall

STRONG

arrears defalcation default deficiency dues inadequacy insufficiency lack paucity scantiness shortcoming

WEAK

dead horse due bill in hock in the hole in the red insufficience red ink underage

Antonyms

STRONG

abundance adequacy advantage enough perfection plenty satisfaction success sufficiency

WEAK

excess superfluousness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Noting there are persistent global deficits of around 200 million to 230 million ounces, this measure could severely deepen shortages.

From MarketWatch

The average estimate in a Wall Street Journal survey of analysts is for an above-average 169 Bcf withdrawal, which would turn the storage surplus over the five year average into a small deficit.

From The Wall Street Journal

In February, Campbell had argued that demand for solar energy had already pushed the silver market into a structural deficit.

From MarketWatch

At the same time, the medications could potentially cause lasting harm if they are used to compensate for ongoing sleep deficits.

From Science Daily

For the Ducks, who have been plagued by slow starts — 11 of their 21 wins came in games in which they trailed; only the Philadelphia Flyers have more — that deficit was too much to overcome.

From Los Angeles Times

deficit

Example Sentences

Related Words