Defective ~ Deficient
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defective – deficient:
[different pronunciation]
“Defective” means ‘having a fault or defect (something wrong or broken); faulty; not working properly’,
- defective teeth & healthy tooth
e.g.
- defective printer (machine)
You can get a refund on any defective item (thing) you buy in this supermarket.
He is suffering from defective hearing.
__________
“Deficient” means ‘lacking; not having anything or not having enough of something’,
- nitrogen deficient leaves (lack of nitrogen)
e.g.
The has been a deficient supply of water in our town.
She is deficient in many of the qualities needed to make herself a good teacher.
Common Errors:
Any electronic goods that are found to be defect are replaced. [wrong]
Any electronic goods that are found to be defective are replaced. [right]
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Mr. Kumar, an English language teacher, having taught in many countries around the world including Ethiopia and Oman shares this English Language Reference website using material that he has written and compiled during the past 20 years.