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lack

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /læk/

KK: /læk/

intransitive verb
Definition

To be without something that is needed or desired.


Example

He does not lack confidence when speaking in public.


Tense Forms

Past: lacked

Past Participle: lacked


Conversation
Sloth A
I feel like I really lack motivation lately.
Sloth B
Have you considered setting some small goals to help you out?
Sloth A
That's a good idea, but I still feel like I lack energy too.
Sloth B
Maybe you just need to take a break and recharge for a bit.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
need
want
miss
Antonyms
have
possess
own
noun
Definition

A situation where something is missing or not enough, often referring to a need or deficiency.


Example

The lack of resources made it difficult to complete the project.


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard the event was canceled because of a lack of volunteers.
Sloth B
That's too bad! I wanted to help out.
Sloth A
Yeah, it seems like there’s a real lack of interest from the community.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To not have something that is needed or desired.


Example

She lacked the confidence to speak in front of the crowd.


Tense Forms

Past: lacked

Past Participle: lacked


Conversation
Sloth A
I really lack the motivation to work out lately.
Sloth B
I get that! Sometimes it's hard to find the energy.
Sloth A
Yeah, I just feel like I lack any enthusiasm for it right now.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Lack → This word originates from Old English 'lac', meaning a gift or something given. Over time, it evolved to signify the absence of something, as in lacking a gift or resource.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for a gift, 'lac', and remember that 'lack' means the absence of something that could be given.

Visually Confused Words
slack
plack
glack
flack
clack
black
alack
lak
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Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deficiency
absence
shortage
Antonyms
abundance
surplus
plenty
Maybe you just need a workout buddy to make it more fun!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
miss
need
want
Antonyms
possess
have
own