Formal and Informal Expressions of scarce

In different contexts, you can replace 'scarce' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'limited, insufficient' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'hard to come by, thin on the ground' is a commonplace synonym.

scarce: Explore its Definition & Usage

scarce Definition

1insufficient for the demand
2rare, uncommon

Using scarce: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "scarce" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
Water is becoming scarce in many parts of the world.
Example
During the war, food was scarce and expensive.
Example
Scarce resources must be used wisely.
Example
Scarce information is available on the topic.

scarce Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for scarce

Antonyms for scarce

Phrases with scarce

make oneself scarce
to leave quickly or suddenly, especially to avoid someone or something
Example
When he saw his ex-girlfriend at the party, he made himself scarce.
few and far between
rare, uncommon
Example
Opportunities like this are few and far between.
scarce as hen's teeth
extremely rare or nonexistent
Example
Good job opportunities in this area are as scarce as hen's teeth.

Origins of scarce

from Old Norman French 'escars', meaning 'restricted in quantity'

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Summary: scarce in Brief

'Scarce' [skers] means insufficient for the demand or rare and uncommon. It can refer to resources, information, or items that are hard to come by, as in 'Water is becoming scarce in many parts of the world.' 'Scarce' can also be used in idiomatic expressions such as 'make oneself scarce,' meaning to leave quickly or suddenly, and 'few and far between,' meaning rare or uncommon.