Definitions
- Describing a situation or thing that is completely lacking in a particular quality or characteristic. - Referring to a person who lacks a particular trait or quality entirely. - Talking about a place or environment that is completely empty or barren of any features.
- Describing a situation or thing that does not have enough of a particular quality or characteristic. - Referring to a person who is missing a particular trait or quality to some degree. - Talking about a place or environment that is missing certain features or elements.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a situation or thing that is missing something.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a person who is missing a particular trait or quality.
- 3Both words can be used to describe a place or environment that is missing certain features or elements.
What is the difference?
- 1Degree: Devoid implies a complete lack of something, while lacking suggests a partial or insufficient amount.
- 2Usage: Devoid is more formal and less commonly used than lacking, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- 3Connotation: Devoid has a more negative connotation, suggesting a complete absence or emptiness, while lacking is more neutral and can suggest a need for improvement or development.
- 4Structure: Devoid is an adjective or preposition, while lacking can be a verb or adjective.
- 5Intensity: Devoid is a stronger word than lacking and can convey a more severe or extreme situation.
Remember this!
Devoid and lacking are synonyms that describe a situation or thing that is missing something. However, devoid implies a complete lack of something, while lacking suggests a partial or insufficient amount. Devoid is more formal and less commonly used than lacking, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
