SHORTAGE Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

shortage

noun

ˈshȯr-tij

Definition of shortage

as in lack

a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number there was a troubling shortage of supplies for the troops overseas this year

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of shortage During one such shortage, Amutwayi went to buy water from a vendor point on the street but did not have enough money to pay the full price. — Raul Roman, NPR, 25 July 2026 David Martin, Terra’s chief executive officer, said through a spokeswoman that the project is designed to do more than just address Miami-Dade’s boat slip shortages. — Miami Herald, 25 July 2026 This approach is designed not only to enhance productivity but also to improve workplace safety and address labour shortages facing heavy industries worldwide. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 25 July 2026 The main bottleneck to America’s AI ambitions won’t be a shortage of computer scientists. — Brendan Bechtel, Fortune, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for shortage

Recent Examples of Synonyms for shortage

Noun

The studies, and lack of follow-through, raise the issue about what could have averted the still-climbing death toll, and what steps need to be taken to prepare for an inevitable next earthquake.

— Syra Ortiz-Blanes, Miami Herald, 24 July 2026
People on social media reacted to the Observer’s report with outrage at CMPD’s lack of transparency and disbelief in their conclusion, as well as gratitude to the Observer for digging into the subject.

— Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026

Definition of lack

Noun

The leaves were also quite yellow, which suggests a nutrient deficiency.

— Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 July 2026
Some capsules contain vitamin D3 for people who have a vitamin D deficiency, which can contribute to hair loss, according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.

— Nicole Hernandez, USA Today, 24 July 2026

Definition of deficiency

Noun

In my experience, this level of demand typically translates into both scarcity and a higher cost of hiring, which can place top-tier tech talent out of reach for the average startup.

— Vidya Plainfield, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
Analysts say the premium reflects scarcity of access as much as conviction in the underlying business.

— Anniek Bao,Jenny Lee, CNBC, 23 July 2026

Definition of scarcity

Browse Nearby Words

short

shortage

shortages

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“Shortage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shortage. Accessed 28 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of shortage

noun

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