wanting
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.not having something that is needed or expected.
adj.absent, lacking, or unavailable when required.
Simple“We checked the supplies and found several important tools were wanting.”
In context“The investigation revealed that the necessary safety protocols were wanting, leading to a total overhaul of the factory's operating procedures.”
Antonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
adj.failing to reach a certain standard; not high enough quality.
adj.deficient in quality or character; failing to meet a required standard.
Simple“The judge found the lawyer's argument wanting and dismissed the case.”
In context“Despite his impressive academic credentials, his interpersonal skills were found wanting during the final round of executive interviews.”
Teacher's tipOften used in the phrase 'found wanting' to describe a person or plan that fails a test or evaluation.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
prep.less than or minus a certain amount.
prep.less; short of; minus.
Simple“It was now twenty minutes wanting five o'clock.”
In context“The ledger showed the total was still ten pounds wanting the full amount required for the deposit.”
UsageUsually used in specific regional or older constructions regarding time or money.
From Middle English wantyng, wantynge, wantand, equivalent to want + -ing.
From Middle English wantyng, wantynge, equivalent to want + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.