What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deficit
Example
The company is facing a budget deficit this year. [deficit: noun]
Example
The government announced a trade deficit due to increased imports. [deficit: noun]
deficiency
Example
The patient was diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency. [deficiency: noun]
Example
The team's deficiency in communication led to misunderstandings and mistakes. [deficiency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deficit is more commonly used than deficiency in everyday language, especially in financial or economic contexts. Deficiency is less common but more versatile and can be used in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deficit and deficiency?
Deficit is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, while deficiency is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
