Definition

In a way that is lacking or insufficient in quality or quantity.

Example

The project was completed deficiently, leading to many errors and issues.

Conversation

I noticed you were working on that project for a while.

Yeah, but I think I did it deficiently in some parts.

What do you mean by that?

I just feel like I could have researched more thoroughly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deficiently → It is formed from "deficere" (from Latin, meaning to fail or to be lacking) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "deficiently" means in a manner that is lacking or insufficient.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'failing' or 'lacking' — 'deficere' means to fail, and '-ly' indicates the manner of doing something. This helps you remember that deficiently refers to doing something in a lacking way.

Visually Confused Words