What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insufficient
Example
The amount of food we have is insufficient for all the guests. [insufficient: adjective]
Example
The evidence presented was insufficient to prove the defendant's guilt. [insufficient: adjective]
short
Example
The skirt is too short for the dress code. [short: adjective]
Example
I'm sorry, but our meeting will have to be cut short due to time constraints. [short: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Short is more commonly used than insufficient in everyday language. Short is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while insufficient is more specific and tends to be used in more formal settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between insufficient and short?
Insufficient is generally considered more formal than short. It is often used in academic or professional writing to describe a lack of something necessary or required. Short, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
