a paucity of information

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a paucity of information" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a lack or scarcity of information on a particular topic or subject. Example: "The research report was deemed inconclusive due to a paucity of information regarding the participants' backgrounds."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

AHP representative bodies recognise there is a paucity of information, particularly in nationally collected datasets.

The Guardian

Passengers were already irritated, complaining of a paucity of information about their repatriation.

The Guardian

As a result, there is a paucity of information about methods of instruction that work.

The Washington Post

There is a paucity of information on basic life history traits.

Cornell University

Again, there was a paucity of information in his replies and sometimes something close to a blank.

The New Yorker

There is a paucity of information in the literature that addresses this question.

Forensic Science International

Additionally, there is a paucity of information from regions of high avian diversity, e.g. tropical forests.

Landscape and Urban Planning

In Ghana there is a paucity of information on urban farming.

Habitat International

However, there is a paucity of information on the optimal tube size for grass growth.

Urban Forestry & Urban Greening

Currently, there is a paucity of information available on elephant immune function.

Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology

However, there is currently a paucity of information on these seagrass pathosystems.

Marine Pollution Bulletin

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a paucity of information", ensure the context clearly defines what specific information is lacking and why its absence is significant.

Common error

Avoid using "a paucity of information" if some information exists, but it's simply not comprehensive. Instead, consider phrases like "limited information" or "incomplete data" to more accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a paucity of information" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the state of having insufficient data or knowledge on a particular topic. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

32%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a paucity of information" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes a lack of information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It's especially common in scientific, academic, and news contexts to highlight limitations in data or knowledge. While alternatives like "a lack of data" or "insufficient information" exist, "a paucity of information" adds a slightly more formal tone. When using the phrase, ensure clarity about what information is lacking and why it matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A lack of data

Emphasizes the absence of factual figures and statistics.

A scarcity of knowledge

Highlights the limited understanding or awareness of a subject.

A dearth of information

Indicates a severe shortage or absence of information.

Limited data availability

Focuses on the restricted access to or existence of data.

Insufficient information

Suggests that the amount of information is inadequate for a specific purpose.

A shortage of details

Highlights the absence of specific facts and particulars.

Inadequate information base

Emphasizes the insufficiency of the foundation of data and knowledge.

Limited insight

Focuses on restricted comprehension and understanding.

A vacuum of data

Suggests a complete absence of data in a particular area.

Fragmentary information

Highlights that only incomplete and disconnected pieces of information are available.

FAQs

How can I use "a paucity of information" in a sentence?

You can use "a paucity of information" to describe situations where there is a lack or scarcity of data or knowledge. For example: "The study's conclusions were limited due to a paucity of information on long-term effects."

What are some alternatives to saying "a paucity of information"?

Alternatives include "a lack of data", "a scarcity of knowledge", or "insufficient information", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a paucity of information" or "a lack of information"?

"A paucity of information" and "a lack of information" are largely interchangeable, but "a paucity of information" might be perceived as slightly more formal or academic. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone of your writing.

In what contexts is "a paucity of information" most appropriately used?

"A paucity of information" is commonly used in academic writing, scientific reports, and news articles when discussing research gaps, data limitations, or areas where knowledge is scarce.