Crossword Genius

Slack adjustment creates deficiencies (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lacks

'deficiencies' is the definition.
('lack' can be a synonym of 'deficiency')

'slack adjustment' is the wordplay.
'adjustment' is an anagram indicator.
'slack' anagrammed gives 'LACKS'.

'creates' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for lacks that I've seen before include "Wants, is deficient in" , "Is without, wants" , "Has a want" , "Doesn't have" , "Needs" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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