Definition

A situation where there is not enough of something, especially money, or a lack of something that is needed.

Example

The company reported a significant deficit in its budget this year.

Conversation

Have you seen the latest report about the budget?deficit is really high this year.

Yeah, I heard about that; it’s concerning for the school.

Right? I wonder how they plan to address this deficit moving forward.

Hopefully, they find a way to cut costs without affecting our programs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deficit → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "facere" (meaning to make or do). The word describes a situation where something is made less or is lacking, hence a shortfall or deficiency.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'made less' or 'going down' — 'de-' means down, and 'facere' means to make. This helps you remember that a deficit refers to a lack or shortfall.

Visually Confused Words