deficit

The word “deficit” means a shortfall or lack — an amount by which something falls short of what is needed or expected. In plain terms, a gap where something — usually money — is missing compared to what should be there.

“Deficit” is pronounced DEH-fih-siht (/ˈdɛfəsɪt/ in IPA).

Here is “deficit” used in a sentence: “The team is running a talent deficit after two star players left.”

Words with a similar meaning to “deficit” include fiscal deficit and shortfall.

The opposite of “deficit” — its antonyms — is surplus.

“Deficit” is a noun.

The word “deficit” comes from Latin. From French déficit, ultimately from Latin dēficit ("it is lacking"). Related to "defect.".

“Deficit” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

A deficit is the amount by which spending exceeds income over a given period, such as a single year. Debt is the accumulated total that is owed, built up over time — often the result of running deficits year after year. A government can shrink its deficit while its overall debt still grows.

The opposite of a deficit is a surplus. Where a deficit means spending has exceeded income or something falls short of what is needed, a surplus means income has exceeded spending or there is more than required.

A deficit is the measured amount by which something falls short of what is needed or expected — a gap you can put a number on, as in "a deficit of two million pounds." A shortage is a situation in which there is simply not enough of something to go around, such as a shortage of housing or staff.

You run a deficit, face a deficit, and try to reduce, cut, or eliminate it. In sport, a team can also overturn or make up a deficit, meaning it recovers from being behind. "Run a deficit" is the standard phrase for continuing to spend more than you take in.