insufficiency

Everyday

1. Insufficiency means not having enough of something. tree →
2. (medicine) Insufficiency is when a body part does not work well enough, like heart insufficiency. tree →

In the lessons

In maths problems, an insufficiency of information means you cannot get the answer. In medicine, doctors use it for organs not working enough. In everyday life it is a formal word for a shortage. Phrases: an insufficiency of, kidney insufficiency.

Examples

• The plan failed because of an insufficiency of money. tree →
• The doctor said he had a heart valve insufficiency. tree →
• There is an insufficiency of data to prove it. tree →
• An insufficiency of water made the plants wilt. tree →
• The judge noted the insufficiency of the evidence. tree →
• Insufficiency of vitamin D can weaken bones. tree →

Note

Formal; everyday words are «lack» or «shortage». Adjective: insufficient. In maths, «insufficient information» means the problem cannot be solved as given.