Reading Theme:
Lack: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：be without (lack)
lack
/læk/
n./vt.
To not have something that is needed or wanted.
be without
➕
/bi wɪˈðaʊt/
n./vt.
It means to not possess something that is needed or desired.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
The word 'lack' originates from Middle English 'lak', derived from Old Norse 'lakr', meaning deficient or wanting.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'lack' as 'lag behind' – when you lack something, you fall short and lag in progress.
📖 Example
I always feel tired in the morning because I lack enough sleep.
I often feel tired in the morning due to not getting sufficient sleep.
🔗 Collocations
lack of sleep – the absence of sufficient sleep
lack confidence – to not have enough self-assurance
lack resources – to be without necessary materials or funds
🔄 Synonyms
be without (vt.) – to not possess something
need (vt.) – to require something that is absent
🌱 Derivatives
lacking (adj.) – deficient or absent
📖 Cultural Story
In modern English, 'lack' is frequently used in formal contexts such as business reports and academic writing to indicate insufficiency or absence. For instance, phrases like 'lack of resources' or 'lack of evidence' are common in discussions about project management or legal cases, highlighting its role in precise communication.
Meaning 2：absence (lack)
lack
/læk/
n./vt.
The state of not having something or not having enough of something.
absence
➕
/ˈæbsəns/
n./vt.
It refers to the state or condition of not having something, especially when it is needed.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The main problem in the old classroom was the lack of modern equipment like computers and projectors.
The primary issue in the outdated classroom was the absence of modern equipment such as computers and projectors.
🔗 Collocations
lack of equipment – the state of not having necessary tools
lack of funds – the absence of sufficient money
lack of information – the deficiency of needed data
🔄 Synonyms
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