lacking
6 synonyms and 1 antonyms for lacking, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Missing, or not having enough of something needed.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Antonyms
How to use lacking
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Frequently asked questions
What does “lacking” mean?
The word “lacking” means missing, or not having enough of something needed. In plain terms, missing something, or falling short of what's needed.
How do you pronounce “lacking”?
“Lacking” is pronounced LA-kihng (/ˈlækɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “lacking” in a sentence?
Here is “lacking” used in a sentence: “The report was lacking in detail and had to be rewritten.”
What is the opposite of “lacking”?
The opposite of “lacking” — its antonyms — is present.
What part of speech is “lacking”?
“Lacking” is an adjective.
Is “lacking” a common word?
“Lacking” is a fairly common word in modern English.
Is it "lacking in confidence" or "lacking confidence"?
Both are correct. "Lacking confidence" treats lacking like a verb form taking a direct object, while "lacking in confidence" uses the adjective pattern with "in", which is slightly more common when describing character and qualities. The meaning is identical: not having enough of something needed.
What is the difference between lacking and missing?
"Missing" means simply not there: a missing page is absent. "Lacking" adds the idea of insufficiency against a need or standard: something can be present but still lacking if there is not enough of it, as in "the evidence was lacking". Use missing for absence and lacking for shortfall.
What is the difference between lacking and deficient?
Both mean not having enough of something needed. "Deficient" is more formal and technical, common in medical, nutritional, and official contexts such as "deficient in iron", and often implies measurement against a defined requirement. "Lacking" is the everyday choice and can describe anything from resources to confidence.