deficit
English meaning: Deficit
Definition
The amount by which a government’s spending exceeds its revenue in a given period.
Example
“A widening fiscal deficit forced the government to cut spending.”
Another example: “After the late nights, she was running a serious sleep deficit.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A common economics term for the gap when spending exceeds income; also used generally for any shortfall (e.g. a sleep deficit, attention deficit). Neutral register; contrasted with 'surplus'.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
Latin deficere (to fail, fall short).
Synonyms
- shortfall
- shortage
- deficiency
Antonyms / Opposites
- surplus
- excess
Related Words
Common Collocations
- budget deficit
- trade deficit
- run a deficit
- cut the deficit
- fiscal deficit
Word Forms
deficit (n); deficits (pl)
Word Tools
Tools & Calculators
Maturity = 146,932.81 · Interest earned = 46,932.81
Literary Heritage
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.”
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B