Shortage: meaning, definitions and examples

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shortage

[ ˈʃɔː.tɪdʒ ]

^{Context #1}

economic

A situation in which the demand for a product or service exceeds the supply available. Shortages can lead to price increases and scarcity.

Synonyms

deficiency, lack, scarcity

Examples of usage

There is a shortage of skilled workers in the technology sector.
The shortage of affordable housing in the city is a growing concern.
During the pandemic, there was a shortage of medical supplies.
The shortage of raw materials has impacted production.
Food shortages can result from poor harvests or distribution issues.

^{Context #2}

general

A state or situation of not having enough of something.

Synonyms

dearth, inadequacy, insufficiency

Examples of usage

There is a shortage of time to complete the project.
We are experiencing a shortage of patience in this situation.
The shortage of resources is hindering our progress.
The company faced a shortage of funding for expansion.
Her busy schedule resulted in a shortage of sleep.

Translations

Translations of the word "shortage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escassez

🇮🇳 कमी

🇩🇪 Knappheit

🇮🇩 kekurangan

🇺🇦 нестача

🇵🇱 niedobór

🇯🇵 不足

🇫🇷 pénurie

🇪🇸 escasez

🇹🇷 kıtlık

🇰🇷 부족

🇸🇦 نقص

🇨🇿 nedostatek

🇸🇰 nedostatok

🇨🇳 短缺

🇸🇮 pomanjkanje

🇮🇸 skortur

🇰🇿 жетіспеушілік

🇬🇪 დეფიციტი

🇦🇿 çatışmazlıq

🇲🇽 escasez

Word origin

The word 'shortage' originated from the combination of 'short' and 'age', indicating a lack of something. It has been used in English since the 18th century to describe situations where there is an insufficient supply of goods or resources. Shortages can have significant economic and social impacts, affecting various aspects of society. Understanding and addressing shortages is crucial for maintaining balance and stability in different sectors.