carecer
“carecer” means “to lack” in Spanish (to not have something needed or expected).
to lack
Also: to be without, to be devoid of
📝 In Action
Muchos niños en esa región carecen de agua potable.
B1Many children in that region lack safe drinking water.
Sus argumentos carecen de sentido lógico.
B2His arguments lack logical sense.
Aunque es talentoso, el joven carece de experiencia profesional.
C1Although he is talented, the young man lacks professional experience.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "carecer" in Spanish:
to lack→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: carecer
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'I lack' in Spanish?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'carescere', which is a form of 'carēre' meaning 'to be without' or 'to be free from'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'carecer' the same as 'no tener'?
Yes, they mean the same thing, but 'carecer' is more formal and is usually used for qualities, rights, or resources rather than physical objects like 'I don't have a pen'.
Why is it 'carezco' and not 'careco'?
In Spanish, verbs ending in -ecer add a 'z' before the 'c' in the present 'yo' form and all present subjunctive forms to preserve the soft sound of the consonant.
Can I use 'carecer' for people?
Yes, you can say someone 'carece de paciencia' (lacks patience) or 'carece de hogar' (is homeless).