How to Say "are lacking" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “are lacking” is “faltan” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Faltan tres sillas en la mesa para todos.
Three chairs are missing from the table for everyone.
¿Qué más falta? Faltan los documentos firmados.
What else is missing? The signed documents are lacking.
The 'Gustar' Structure
When 'faltar' means 'to be missing,' it works backward, just like 'gustar' (to like). The thing that is missing is the real subject, so if it's plural (like 'documents'), you use 'faltan'.
Confusing Singular/Plural
Mistake: “Using 'falta' when talking about multiple things: *Falta cinco minutos.*”
Correction: Always check the quantity missing. If it's plural, use 'faltan': *Faltan cinco minutos.* (Five minutes are missing/left.)
Related Translations
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