Another Word For Shortage

Meaning

The word "shortage" refers to a situation where there is not enough of something available to meet the demand. It often indicates a lack of a necessary resource, which can lead to challenges such as increased prices, competition for the limited resources, or a failure to provide services.

Synonyms

• Deficiency
• Scarcity
• Lack
• Insufficiency
• Dearth

Antonyms

• Surplus
• Abundance
• Plenty
• Excess

Etymology

The word "shortage" originates from the adjective "short," which dates back to Old English "sceort," meaning "brief or small," combined with the suffix "-age," which denotes a state, condition, or action. Thus, "shortage" literally means the state of being short of something.

Examples

1. The current shortage of skilled workers is affecting industries nationwide.
2. Due to the bad harvest, there was a significant shortage of grains this year.
3. The city faced a water shortage after a prolonged drought, prompting officials to impose restrictions.
4. There is a shortage of affordable housing in urban areas, leading to an increase in homelessness.