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Plus, alternative phrases you can use instead
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If you’ve heard the phrase “lack thereof” but are not quite sure what it means, you’ve come to the right place! Or, maybe you understand what it means but are looking for something you can say that doesn’t sound quite so formal. This article explains the meaning of “lack thereof,” how to use it in a sentence, and what to say instead. Plus, we give you plenty of examples!
“Lack Thereof” Meaning
“Lack thereof” means something that was mentioned previously is missing or in short supply. For example, someone might say, "The county's water restrictions will depend on the rainfall or lack thereof."
Steps
Section 2 of 4:
How to Use “Lack Thereof” Correctly
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Say “lack thereof” to refer to whether a thing exists or not. The primary way to use “lack thereof” in a sentence is to say an outcome depends on whether or not something is there. However, it can also mean the outcome will be the same whether something is there or not, depending on the context. [4] X Research source
- “We’re searching the property for water – or lack thereof.”
- “No one seemed to care about her law degree or lack thereof.”
- “The trial's outcome depends on the evidence or lack thereof.”
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Use “lack thereof” to say you don’t have something. It’s a way to emphasize that something is missing. [5] X Research source This usage usually carries a mildly sarcastic or humorous tone, such as, “You’ll discover my singing talent, or lack thereof, as soon as the music starts.”
- You can also say it jokingly after someone else makes a statement. For example, your friend says, “It has to do with my intelligence.” Then, you could say, “Or lack thereof,” to humorously imply they aren’t very smart after all.
- Another example of how to use “lack thereof” sarcastically is: “You just want to go out so you can show your rizz – or lack thereof.”
- If you aren’t familiar with using sarcasm , you can easily hurt someone’s feelings so proceed with caution when using “lack thereof” this way.
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