Cryptic crossword clue
Sketch helps to show deficiencies

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word DRAWBACKS

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
D
R
A
W
B
A
C
K
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "deficiencies" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case deficiencies = drawbacks.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does DRAWBACKS mean?

DRAWBACKS noun
  1. A disadvantage; something that detracts or takes away.
  2. A partial refund of an import fee, as when goods are re-exported from the country that collected the fee.
  3. The inhalation of a lungful of smoke from a cigarette.

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