scarce - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scarce Word Meanings
- not enough to satisfy demand
- hard to find or obtain
- in short supply
scarce Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scarce Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skeəs/
US
/skɛrs/
scarce Word Etymology
scarce = scar + ce; historical origin: Latin 'scarus' → Old French 'escarce' → English. Imagine a vast desert with just a few precious jewels scattered around; they are scarce.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Scarce describes a situation where there is not enough of something to meet demand. It often appears in markets where supplies are limited or seasonally variable, or in times of disruption when staples run out. The word contrasts with plentiful or abundant, highlighting a shortage rather than a small quantity. People might say water is scarce in a drought, or a rare artifact is scarce because only a few exist. Because scarcity focuses on the balance between desire and available goods, it is a useful term for economics, budgeting, and everyday planning, reminding us that resource levels can fall short of needs.
Usage Reminders
- Use scarce for things that are in short supply or not enough to meet demand.
- Do not equate scarce with rare in all contexts; scarcity is about shortage, not rarity.
- Describe a situation, not a person or thing’s inherent quality.
- Pair with is or has to describe a condition: Water is scarce during a drought.
- Think of collocations: scarce resources, scarce supply, become scarce.
- Practice with economics or everyday planning contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Scarce means rare in all contexts; in fact it emphasizes shortage, not rarity.
- Scarce only applies to physical goods, not time, opportunities, or intangible resources.
- Scarce is not the same as expensive; prices can rise due to scarcity but are separate ideas.
- Confusing scarce with 'scarcely' which is an adverb meaning barely.
- Assuming scarcity means permanent; it can be temporary due to events like droughts or disruptions.
Thinking Differences
Scarcity is a broad economic concept; learners should distinguish it from rarity or high price. Focus on supply-demand balance, not just how unusual something is.
Learning Tips
- Create flashcards with scarce and common collocations.
- Compare scarce with rare and with limited to see nuances.
- Practice with real-world contexts like weather, resources, or time.
- Learn common verbs: become scarce, be scarce, lead to scarcity.
- Read news about resource shortages to see scarcity in action.
- Write short situations describing why something is scarce.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'scarce'?
A.Abundant
B.Rare
C.Comfortable
D.Chaos
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'scarce' used correctly?
A.Water is a scarce resource in desert regions.
B.The garden was full of scarce flowers.
C.Scarce hats are in style this season.
D.He found a scarce treasure hidden in the attic.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'scarce'?
A.Plentiful
B.Common
C.Scant
D.Sufficient
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'scarce'?
A.Limited
B.Excessive
C.Scarce
D.Sparse
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would you use the word 'scarce'?
A.Describing food scarcity in a famine-stricken region
B.Discussing a bustling city market
C.Talking about a crowded beach
D.Planning a picnic with friends
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