documentation is scarce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "documentation is scarce" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the availability or lack of documentation on a particular topic or subject. Example: "In this area of research, documentation is scarce, making it difficult to find reliable sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Corroborating documentation is scarce.

The New York Times - Arts

Even later documentation is scarce.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Documentation is scarce, but Gleeson assumes that Law studied and embraced these revolutionary concepts during his travels.

The New York Times - Books

This is a special challenge when the original developer of the often homegrown legacy systems doesn't have well-defined interfaces, documentation is scarce, and the software engineers are not available anymore.

Harvard Business Review

Although transmission may be amplified at mass gatherings (e.g., theaters, sports events), documentation is scarce.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Documents were scarce.

Forbes

Paper documentation is equally scarce.

Columbia University

However, Mortierella wolfii is a cattle pathogen, the documentation of human infections is scarce and no cases have been described since 2000.

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Since historical documentation of the early Islamic period is scarce, coins offer valuable insight into the economic, political, social, and religious aspects of ancient life during the rise of Islam and its spread throughout Byzantium and the Near East during the seventh century A.D. The coins on view reflect the evolving iconography of the period.

Yale University

Pilot initiatives to introduce more sustainable farming practices are many in Africa; thorough documentation of results and lessons learned is scarce.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Yet while pieces of the history have been collected over the years, no thorough study exists, and even basic documentation has been scarce.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "documentation is scarce", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific type of documentation is lacking. This adds precision to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "documentation is scarce" when some documentation exists, but it's simply difficult to access or analyze. Instead, consider saying "documentation is difficult to access" or "documentation requires further analysis."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "documentation is scarce" functions as a statement indicating a lack of available records or evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts, suggesting it can effectively convey the limited presence of formal documentation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "documentation is scarce" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to indicate a lack of available records or evidence on a given subject. Ludwig AI confirms this and shows examples that span across news, science, and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure to specify the type of documentation in question to provide clarity. If some documentation exists but is challenging to access, consider alternative phrasing. While "documentation is scarce" is suitable for both formal and informal settings, maintaining a professional register enhances its suitability. Related phrases like "evidence is scarce" or "information is scarce" can provide nuanced alternatives, depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

documentation is limited

A direct synonym focusing on the restriction of available documentation.

evidence is scarce

Focuses on the lack of proof or substantiation rather than the absence of formal documents.

information is scarce

Highlights the limited availability of data or facts on a subject.

there's a dearth of documentation

Uses "dearth" to denote a significant lack of documentation.

records are incomplete

Emphasizes the partial or unfinished state of existing records.

data is limited

Points out the restricted amount of data available for analysis or reference.

details are lacking

Suggests that specific pieces of information are missing from the overall account.

official records are few

Emphasizes the lack of official or formal documentation.

historical accounts are sparse

Refers to the lack of abundant historical narratives or descriptions.

substantiation is wanting

Highlights the need for more concrete evidence or support.

FAQs

How can I use "documentation is scarce" in a sentence?

You can use "documentation is scarce" to describe situations where there is a lack of records, evidence, or data on a particular topic. For example, "Due to the clandestine nature of the activities, "documentation is scarce"."

What are some alternatives to saying "documentation is scarce"?

Alternatives include "evidence is scarce", "information is scarce", or "documentation is limited", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "documentation is scarce"?

It is appropriate when there is a genuine lack of documented evidence or records, making it difficult to verify claims, conduct research, or establish a clear understanding of a subject.

Is "documentation is scarce" formal or informal?

The phrase "documentation is scarce" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language should match the intended register. In a formal setting, consider using alternatives like "official records are few" to maintain a higher level of formality.