scarcity

Everyday

1. Scarcity is when there is not enough of something that people need or want. tree →
2. (economics) Scarcity is the basic idea that resources are limited, so people must choose. tree →

In the lessons

In social studies and science: scarcity of water in deserts, food scarcity in a drought. In maths and money lessons, scarcity can make prices go up. Phrases: «water scarcity», «scarcity of food».

Examples

• Water scarcity is a big problem in dry countries. tree →
• The scarcity of rain killed the crops. tree →
• Because of the scarcity of eggs, the price went up. tree →
• Scarcity means people must choose what to buy. tree →
• During the war there was a scarcity of sugar. tree →

Note

Noun of «scarce» (rare, not enough). Usually uncountable. Spelling: scar-ci-ty (not «scarceity»).