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scarcity

noun

/ˈskɛər sɪ ti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of scarcity

A state or condition of limited availability or insufficient supply of a particular resource, commodity, or item.
"The scarcity of affordable housing has led to a homelessness crisis in many major cities."

Detailed meaning of scarcity

It represents a situation where the demand for something exceeds its availability or where there is a deficiency or paucity in comparison to the demand or need. Scarcity can apply to various aspects of life, including natural resources, food, water, money, or even time. It highlights the reality that resources are finite and that their availability is often insufficient to fulfill all desires or requirements. Scarcity forces individuals, communities, and societies to make choices and prioritize their needs due to the inherent constraints and limitations. The concept of scarcity is fundamental to economics, as it plays a crucial role in determining the value, price, and allocation of goods and services.

Example sentences containing scarcity

1. Water scarcity in arid regions impacts millions globally, leading to crises.
2. Fuel scarcity worries experts; economy and transport could be greatly affected.
3. Scarcity of food in remote areas causes health and nutritional problems.
4. Due to scarcity, prices of essential goods are skyrocketing alarmingly.
5. In the city, green space scarcity is a pressing environmental issue.
6. A scarcity of skilled labor affects a nation’s industrial progression.

History and etymology of scarcity

The noun 'scarcity' has its etymological origins in the Old French word 'escarcete,' which itself was derived from the Latin term 'excarcatus.' In Latin, 'excarcatus' is a combination of 'ex,' meaning 'out of,' and 'carcere,' meaning 'prison' or 'enclosure.' This etymology suggests the idea of something being taken out of confinement or being freed from a restricted space. Over time, this concept evolved to represent the state or condition of limited availability or insufficient supply of a particular resource, commodity, or item. The term 'scarcity' underscores the notion that the resource in question is not abundant and, in a way, has been released from its usual abundance, resulting in a shortage or deficiency.

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Further usage examples of scarcity

1. Rural communities often grapple with persistent healthcare scarcity.
2. Scarcity in resources can lead to conflicts, wars, and disputes.
3. Tech scarcity during crises highlights the need for innovation.
4. Scarcity of medicines in a pandemic can exacerbate health issues.
5. Facing scarcity, communities must adopt sustainable living practices.
6. Job scarcity during economic recessions affects mental well-being.
7. Resource scarcity prompts nations to seek alternative supplies.
8. Soil nutrient scarcity impacts crop yield and food production.
9. During droughts, the scarcity of water becomes a critical issue.
10. Lack of funds causes a scarcity of educational materials in schools.
11. Scarcity of affordable housing contributes to homelessness.
12. Nutrient scarcity in soil reduces the yield of essential crops.
13. Scarcity of mental health services affects societal well-being.
14. Amid scarcity, barter systems often emerge to facilitate trade.
15. Electricity scarcity hinders technological progress in rural areas.
16. A scarcity of fresh produce leads to dietary and health issues.
17. The scarcity of teachers in rural areas affects education quality.
18. As forests decline, there’s a scarcity of natural wildlife habitats.
19. Scarcity of information can lead to misunderstandings and fear.
20. Raw material scarcity impacts industries and the global economy.
21. Scarcity challenges require innovative and sustainable solutions.
22. Vaccine scarcity during outbreaks extends the duration of diseases.
23. Scarcity of safe spaces exacerbates the refugees’ living conditions.