lack
The word “lack” is very similar to the negative form of the verb “have.” (lack = do not have)
- They lack a good plan for improving their business.
- They don’t have a good plan for improving their business.
- He lacks a good education.
- He doesn’t have a good education.
- This neighborhood lacked a grocery store until last year.
- This neighborhood didn’t have a grocery store until last year.
You can also use the word “lack” as a noun:
- There’s a lack of understanding among the people involved in this situation.
- A lack of clean water and proper sanitation caused an outbreak of disease.
- Joe didn’t get the job because of his lack of knowledge.
- The lack of concern shown by the rich towards the poor may eventually cause problems later.
He’s suffering from a lack of water.