deficit
Translation
deficit, shortfall
Examples
The country has a large budget deficit.
The country has a large budget deficit.
The team tried to overcome a two-goal deficit.
The team tried to overcome a two-goal deficit.
Grammar Patterns
((a deficit)) ((of sth.)) a shortfall of (sth.) The company has a deficit of $1 million.
((a budget/trade deficit)) a financial shortfall The government is trying to reduce the trade deficit.
Similar Words
Synonyms: shortfall, loss, shortage; Antonyms: surplus, profit
Etymology
From Latin 'deficit' meaning 'it is wanting', from 'deficere' (to be wanting). Same root as deficiency.
Memory Tips
Often used in finance. Think 'de-' (down) + 'fit' (from facere, to make). The amount made is down, resulting in a loss.