Shorthanded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ทโโ๏ธ
shorthanded
[หสษหrtหhรฆndษชd ]
Definition
working condition
Shorthanded refers to a situation where there are not enough staff or personnel to handle the workload effectively. This term is often used in workplaces and organizations where the absence of employees due to illness, vacation, or other reasons results in an insufficient number of workers available to perform necessary tasks.
Synonyms
casual, deficient, insufficient, understaffed.
Examples of usage
- The team was shorthanded after several members called in sick.
- Our restaurant was shorthanded during the holiday rush, leading to longer wait times.
- The company has been shorthanded for months, struggling to meet customer demands.
Translations
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Origin of 'shorthanded'
The word 'shorthanded' is derived from the combination of 'short', meaning lacking or insufficient, and 'hand', which references labor or workers. The earliest use of 'short hand' dates back to the 16th century, primarily referring to the practice of using brief forms in writing to save time and effort. Over time, the term evolved to describe situations where there are not enough hands (workers) to complete the required tasks effectively. In the 20th century, 'shorthanded' became increasingly used in business and employment contexts, particularly within service industries where staffing levels are critical to operations. The concept emphasizes the challenges faced by teams and organizations trying to function efficiently with fewer employees than needed.