Paucity: meaning, definitions and examples

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paucity

[ˈpɔːsɪti ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

lack of

Paucity refers to a smallness in number or quantity, indicating a scarcity or insufficiency. It is often used to describe a lack or shortage of something.

Synonyms

insufficiency, scarcity, shortage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
paucity	Appropriate in formal contexts to describe an extreme lack or insufficient quantity of something, often used in academic or professional settings. The paucity of evidence made it difficult to reach a definitive conclusion There is a paucity of information on this subject
scarcity	Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a situation where something is hard to find or in limited supply, often with a sense of urgency or concern. Water scarcity is becoming a serious issue in many parts of the world The scarcity of affordable housing is a growing problem in urban areas
insufficiency	Can be used both formally and informally to highlight a general inadequacy or shortage of something necessary or desirable. The project failed due to the insufficiency of funds Insufficiency of food led to widespread malnutrition in the region
shortage	Frequently used in everyday language to indicate a lack or deficit in supply of something needed or desired, often with an emphasis on the immediate impact. There is a shortage of nurses in the hospital The store experienced a shortage of toilet paper during the crisis

Examples of usage

There is a paucity of evidence to support his claims.
We are experiencing a paucity of resources.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'paucity' comes from the Latin word 'paucitas', which means 'smallness' or 'fewness'.
The root 'paucus' in Latin directly translates to 'few', indicating the origin of the concept behind scarcity.
This word has been in English since the early 17th century, reflecting the longstanding discussion about lack or scarcity.

Literature

In many literary works, authors highlight the theme of paucity to critique societal issues like poverty or hunger.
Poets often use the contrast of abundance versus paucity to evoke strong emotions and underline the fragility of human conditions.
Classic novels frequently depict characters facing physical or emotional scarcity to emphasize struggle and resilience.

Economics

In economics, 'paucity' can refer to a shortage of resources, which can affect supply and demand dynamics.
The concept is crucial in discussions about food security, where a paucity of food can lead to increased prices and social unrest.
Scholars analyze the impact of resource paucity on economic growth and development strategies.

Psychology

Research shows that experiencing a paucity of resources can lead to stress and anxiety, affecting mental health.
In psychology, the scarcity mindset can occur when individuals perceive a lack in resources, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
Cognitive bias related to scarcity can cause individuals to overvalue what is limited, often distorting decision-making.

Environmental Science

Environmental studies often reference paucity in relation to endangered species that suffer from habitat loss.
Water scarcity, or paucity, is a growing global concern, impacting both human populations and ecosystems.
Sustainable practices aim to mitigate resource paucity by promoting conservation and ecological balance.

Translations

Translations of the word "paucity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escassez

🇮🇳 कमी

🇩🇪 Knappheit

🇮🇩 kekurangan

🇺🇦 нестача

🇵🇱 niedostatek

🇯🇵 不足

🇫🇷 pénurie

🇪🇸 escasez

🇹🇷 kıtlık

🇰🇷 부족

🇸🇦 ندرة

🇨🇿 nedostatek

🇸🇰 nedostatok

🇨🇳 缺乏

🇸🇮 pomanjkanje

🇮🇸 skortur

🇰🇿 тапшылық

🇬🇪 დეფიციტი

🇦🇿 qıtlıq

🇲🇽 escasez

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,957, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
15954 juridical
15955 repelled
15956 nursed
15957 paucity
15958 keyed
15959 astute
15960 attributing
...