a scarce resource

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a scarce resource" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is limited in availability or difficult to obtain. Example: "Water is often considered a scarce resource in arid regions, making conservation efforts essential."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Wood was a scarce resource.

The New York Times

Even chalk is a scarce resource.

The New York Times

"Social housing is a scarce resource.

The Guardian

Energy is a scarce resource on the far shore.

The Guardian

"But they're a very inefficient use of a scarce resource.

The New York Times

For these people, water is a scarce resource.

The Guardian

Neither marriage nor love is a scarce resource.

The New Yorker

Imperial uses minimal water, a scarce resource in the desert.

The New York Times - Science

"Our roadways are a scarce resource," he said.

The New York Times

Terminals must grow vertically since real estate is such a scarce resource at Kennedy.

The New York Times

Such policies are responsive to the idea that energy, oil in particular, is a scarce resource.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing economic or environmental issues, use "a scarce resource" to emphasize the need for careful management and conservation.

Common error

While appropriate in formal discussions, using "a scarce resource" too frequently in casual conversation can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler terms like "limited" or "not readily available" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a scarce resource" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing various limited entities, from water and energy to time and attention. It highlights the limited availability of something in relation to its demand.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a scarce resource" is a widely used noun phrase that describes something limited in availability relative to demand. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, though it is more common in formal settings like news reports, scientific articles, and business communications. Key synonyms include "a limited resource" and "a rare commodity". When using this phrase, consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the intended level of formality and the specific nuances of the situation. To avoid sounding overly formal, especially in casual conversations, consider using simpler alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited resource

Emphasizes the finite quantity or amount available.

a rare commodity

Highlights the infrequency of finding or obtaining the item.

a dwindling asset

Focuses on the progressive reduction in the amount or availability.

a precious commodity

Stresses the high value and importance due to limited availability.

a restricted supply

Indicates that access or distribution is controlled or limited.

a finite supply

Highlights that there is a limit and it cannot be exceeded.

a valuable asset in short supply

Combines the notions of worth and limited availability.

an exhaustible resource

Focuses on the capacity for complete depletion with use.

a hard-to-find item

Emphasizes the difficulty in locating or acquiring the item.

a resource in high demand

Highlights the strong desire for the resource, contributing to its scarcity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a scarce resource" to describe anything that is limited in supply relative to demand. For example, "In the desert, water is "a scarce resource" requiring careful management."

What are some alternatives to "a scarce resource"?

Alternatives include "a limited resource", "a rare commodity", or "a dwindling asset", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a scarce resources" (plural)?

No, the correct form is "a scarce resource" (singular) when referring to a single type of limited commodity. If you're discussing multiple types, you would say "scarce resources". For example, "Time and money are often "scarce resources" for students".

What is the difference between "a scarce resource" and "a finite resource"?

"A scarce resource" implies limited availability relative to demand, while "a finite resource" simply means there's a limited quantity, regardless of demand. Something can be finite but not scarce if the supply sufficiently meets the demand.