Synonyms of shortage

shortage

noun

ˈshȯr-tij 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lack
• deficiency
• scarcity
• deficit
• absence
• paucity
• drought
• dearth
• famine
• insufficiency
• poverty
• inadequacy
• undersupply
• crunch
• lacuna
• failure
• scantiness
• pinch
• scarceness
• inadequateness
• omission
• want
• necessity
• need
• privation
• meagerness
• skimpiness
• poorness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• abundance
• plenty
• wealth
• adequacy
• sufficiency
• amplitude
• opulence
• plenitude
• surplus
• excess
• oversupply
• overabundance
• surfeit
• copiousness
• bountifulness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of shortage

But like many electronics manufacturers, Hon Hai faces a shortage of memory chips used in a wide range of products from smartphones to PCs and servers. — Debby Wu, Fortune, 5 July 2026

Drivers traveling along California's scenic Highway 101 this summer will need to plan ahead after roadside rest areas in both directions of the highway closed because of a water shortage. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026

Many Russian regions are suffering fuel shortages as a result, with people filming themselves waiting in long lines at gas stations. — Patrick Reevell, ABC News, 4 July 2026

Teaming up with Japan would ensure security and safety in light of any disruptions or shortages, as both countries depend on China for these critical minerals. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 4 July 2026