缺少

缺少 means 'to lack' or 'to be short of' in English. It describes a situation where something is not present in sufficient quantity or is absent altogether.

The character 缺 (quē) originally meant 'deficiency' or 'lack,' while 少 (shǎo) means 'few' or 'little.' Together, they form a compound that emphasizes the absence or insufficiency of something.

缺少 is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to express shortages, deficiencies, or the absence of desired qualities. It often appears in discussions about resources, skills, or emotional needs. For example, it can describe a lack of time, money, or support in daily life.