a scarce quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a scarce quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is limited or in short supply. Example: "Due to the drought, there is a scarce quantity of water available for irrigation this season."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Attention here becomes the scarce quantity which is 'consumed' by that which is abundant, that is, information," says Tiziana Terranova in an insightful essay on this subject.

The Guardian

[ 7- 11] The lack of support for homeopathic therapies among Western practitioners stems, in part, from the scarce quantity and perceived poor quality of homeopathic clinical research.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The LSV2 dataset used here included scarce quantities of LSV2-relevant data.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

This is a classic example of the drive towards sustainability; the process offers a real possibility for obtaining meaningful quantities of a renewable chemical that replaces a scarce natural resource.

Biotechnology journal

"Wood was a scarce resource.

The New York Times

Even chalk is a scarce resource.

The New York Times

But worry is a scarce commodity.

The New York Times

"Social housing is a scarce resource.

The Guardian

Space itself is a scarce commodity.

The New York Times - Arts

Labor was a scarce commodity.

Forbes

The Nile: Sharing a Scarce Resource, 229.

Johns Hopkins University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a scarce quantity", clearly define what resource or item you are referring to and the context in which it is limited to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a scarce quantity" too frequently in formal or academic writing; opt for more precise synonyms like "limited supply" or "restricted amount" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a scarce quantity" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun exists in a limited or insufficient amount. Ludwig confirms its basic grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a scarce quantity" is grammatically sound but has no example usages available to determine more precise information about its typical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its basic validity. The phrase is used to denote that something exists in a limited or insufficient amount. While generally appropriate, consider using synonyms like "limited amount" or "short supply" in more formal writing to enhance precision. When using the phrase, be sure to clarify what specific resource or item is limited to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited amount

Focuses on the restriction in the total sum or measure of something, rather than the difficulty in finding it.

a restricted quantity

Highlights an imposed limitation or constraint on the amount of something.

a short supply

Highlights the deficiency in the amount available, suggesting that demand exceeds what is accessible.

a reduced amount

Implies the quantity was greater before and has since been diminished.

a paucity

Indicates a marked deficiency or lack, often implying that something is significantly less than what is needed or expected.

a meager amount

Emphasizes the smallness and inadequacy of the quantity, suggesting it is barely sufficient.

a dearth

Emphasizes the scarcity to an extreme degree, suggesting a severe lack or absence of something.

a deficiency

Points out the insufficiency of something, particularly in relation to a required or expected level.

a trifling quantity

Indicates that the quantity is so small as to be almost insignificant or unimportant.

a nominal quantity

Suggests the amount is so low it's barely worth considering.

FAQs

What does "a scarce quantity" mean?

The phrase "a scarce quantity" refers to a small or limited amount of something that is not readily available or easily found. It implies that the item in question is in short supply.

How can I use "a scarce quantity" in a sentence?

You can use "a scarce quantity" to describe any situation where something is limited. For instance, "During the drought, there was "a scarce quantity" of water available for irrigation".

What are some alternatives to "a scarce quantity"?

Alternatives to "a scarce quantity" include "a limited amount", "a short supply", or "a paucity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "scarce" or "limited" to describe a quantity?

While both "scarce" and "limited" can describe a quantity, "scarce" emphasizes that something is difficult to obtain, whereas "limited" simply indicates a restriction in amount. Therefore, "scarce" suggests a higher degree of unavailability.