Synonyms for

Shortage

Verb / ˈʃɔ:rtʌdʒ / / ˈʃɔ:rtɪdʒ / Another word for shortage — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A state or condition of not having enough of something, especially something essential.

Synonyms & similar words

shortfall deficit famine dearth deficit lack scarcity insufficiency dearth absence paucity shortfall inadequacy want failure deficiency incompleteness inadequateness shortness sparsity unavailability privation need crunch

Synonyms by register

Formal

deficiency insufficiency dearth scarcity

Informal

lack not enough pinch

Literary

want penury

Antonyms

abundance surplus plenty excess profusion glut wealth

Common collocations

  • shortage of staff
  • shortage of supply
  • shortage of cash
  • shortage of food
  • water shortage
  • energy shortage
  • housing shortage

Word family

noun shortage
adjective short

Usage note

Shortage refers to a lack of something that is needed or desired. It is often used in contexts of supply and demand or essential resources.

Example sentences

  1. There is a shortage of pencils in the classroom.
  2. The company experienced a shortage of workers during the busy season.
  3. The drought caused a shortage of crops.
  4. The shortage of toilet paper during the pandemic was a problem.
  5. There was a shortage of seats at the concert.

Quotes

  • The only shortage is the shortage of people who want to work.
  • The real shortage we face is in good, quality jobs that pay a living wage.
  • There's no shortage of money in this world. Start hustling.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words