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 construction industry faces an historic shortage of 439,000 craft professionals. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 6 Sep. 2026 The roots of the missile shortage began long before the war with Iran. — Doyle McManus, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2026 Bedrock says this could help contractors deal with worker shortages and keep projects moving more efficiently. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 6 Sep. 2026 That shortage pushes up rents on many existing units, Martin said. — Brian J. Rogal, Chicago Tribune, 6 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shortage

Recent Examples of Synonyms for shortage

Noun

This pilot is meant to address a gap the district saw in a lack of specialized personnel to provide prevention education, community engagement and intervention protocols for students using substances.

— Morgan Matzen, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, 3 Sep. 2026
As a result, Japan finds itself in a precarious position, caught between a lack of locals to fill roles in the workforce and a distrust of immigrants who can provide labor.

— Christine Miyawaki, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of lack

Noun

According to the brand, this treatment was designed to address hereditary factors, hormonal fluctuations, nutritional deficiencies, and stress.

— Carly Cardellino Vaccaro, InStyle, 5 Sep. 2026
The spotlight on Thompson’s deficiencies will shine even brighter once he’s getting paid north of $40 million per season.

— William Guillory, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026

Definition of deficiency

Noun

In addition to marking a moment in history, the bear was highly sought after due to its scarcity, as the first shipments were reportedly limited to just 12 per licensed retailer.

— Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 31 Aug. 2026
Therefore, analysts note that if extreme weather worsens water and power scarcity, the impact could ripple through the entire semiconductor supply chain.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 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 9 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of shortage

noun

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