Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Deficits refer to situations where there is a shortage or lack of something, particularly in relation to finances. In economics, it commonly refers to a situation where government spending exceeds revenue, resulting in a budget deficit.
Related terms
Trade Deficit: When a country imports more goods and services than it exports, leading to an imbalance in trade.
Budget Deficit: Occurs when government spending exceeds its revenue within a specific period.
Energy Deficit: A state where energy intake from food is lower than the energy expended by the body, often leading to weight loss or fatigue.