Synonyms for

Scarce

Verb / skers / Another word for scarce — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not enough of something; in short supply

Synonyms & similar words

just abundant barely hardly scarcely rare limited sparse meager insufficient scant inadequate short deficient lacking few seldom uncommon unusual infrequent occasional sporadic patchy

Synonyms by register

Formal

limited restricted insufficient inadequate

Informal

hard to find not much few and far between

Literary

rare uncommon meager

Antonyms

abundant plentiful ample copious profuse lavish generous

Common collocations

  • scarce resources
  • scarce commodity
  • scarce supply
  • scarce evidence
  • scarce water
  • scarce food
  • become scarce

Word family

noun scarcity
adverb scarcely

Usage note

Often used to describe things that are in short supply, such as resources or evidence. 'Scarcely' is an adverb meaning 'hardly' or 'barely'.

Example sentences

  1. Food was scarce during the war.
  2. Water is scarce in the desert.
  3. Many animals are becoming scarce due to deforestation.
  4. Money was scarce after the recession.
  5. Jobs are scarce in the small town.

Quotes

  • The good and the wise lead quiet lives. - Euripides
  • “Less is more.” - Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
  • “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” - Leonardo da Vinci

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