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 The talks come as Paz faces protests over his decision to scrap fuel subsidies in a country that once exported natural gas to its neighbors but now struggles with fuel shortages and declining hydrocarbon production. — ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026 Staffing shortages, teacher retention, class sizes, special education issues and improving communication with families are critical issues for Maldonado. — Sophia Veneziano, San Antonio Express-News, 16 Oct. 2026 The space industry is also grappling with a launch capacity shortage, as SpaceX has stopped offering commercial rides on its workhorse Falcon 9 rocket to prioritize its massive Starship rocket. — Annie Palmer, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026 In China, smaller cities and rural areas face a shortage of health care professionals. — Alana Semuels, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shortage

Recent Examples of Synonyms for shortage

Noun

High energy costs, coupled with record exits of foreign investors from its capital markets due to risk aversion and the lack of artificial intelligence play, have kept the rupee under pressure.

— Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026
What should make all hardcore wheelmen and wheelwomen happy is the lack of a huge center screen.

— Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of lack

Noun

While it was designed to bring nationwide uniformity and stability to college athletics, its deficiencies are manifold.

— Bruce Svare, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2026
Commissioner John King's office previously said the March inspection found no violations, deficiencies or red tags.

— Christopher Harris, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of deficiency

Noun

The industry paradox is that the complexity and speed of this new breed of attack, combined with the scarcity of security talent, are leading some organizations to solely rely on AI automation.

— Carlos Morales, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026
That’s due to the scarcity of this type of tree, as well as the porous nature of the wood which means that there is a very high angel’s share during maturation.

— Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 12 Oct. 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 19 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of shortage

noun

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