What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insufficient
Example
The company's budget was insufficient to cover the cost of the project. [insufficient: adjective]
Example
The evidence presented in court was deemed insufficient to convict the defendant. [insufficient: adjective]
scarce
Example
Water became scarce during the drought. [scarce: adjective]
Example
The rare book was scarce and highly sought after by collectors. [scarce: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insufficient is more commonly used than scarce in formal or technical contexts, while scarce is more commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insufficient and scarce?
Insufficient is typically associated with a more formal tone, while scarce is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
