What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shortfall
Example
The company experienced a shortfall in revenue due to the pandemic. [shortfall: noun]
Example
There was a shortfall of volunteers for the event. [shortfall: noun]
lack
Example
There is a lack of resources to complete the project. [lack: noun]
Example
She lacks confidence in her abilities. [lacks: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lack is more commonly used than shortfall in everyday language. Lack is a more general term that covers a wide range of contexts, while shortfall is more specific and often used in financial or budgetary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shortfall and lack?
Both shortfall and lack can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, shortfall may be more commonly used in formal contexts due to its association with financial or budgetary language.
