low on

USAGE SUMMARY

"low on" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English and can be used to indicate that something is in short supply, or deficient in amount.
For example, you could say "We are low on supplies for our camping trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You're low on Trent Richardson.

The New York Times

He was low on fuel.

The New York Times - Sports

Canteen low on water.

The New Yorker

(Low on page).

The New York Times

Scores low on: Irony.

The New York Times - Style

The car ran low on gas.

The New York Times - Sports

Is the government low on funds?

The New York Times

About half score low on I.Q.

The New York Times

"We are running low on ammo.

The New York Times

Expectations are low on both sides.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Learn the "Low-on-Air" hand signal.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "low on", ensure the context clearly indicates what is lacking. Be specific to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "We're low on something", state "We're low on funding".

Common error

Avoid using "low on" when referring to abstract concepts that cannot be quantified. For example, instead of saying "The play was low on emotion", consider alternatives like "The play lacked emotional depth" or "The play was emotionally unengaging".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low on" functions as a predicate adjective followed by a preposition, indicating a state of deficiency or shortage. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. For example, "We are running "low on" ammo."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

22%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "low on" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a deficiency or shortage, as validated by Ludwig AI. It's versatile enough for various contexts, though slightly more formal options exist for academic or professional writing. Usage patterns show its frequent appearance in News & Media, followed by Academia. Remember to be specific about what is lacking when using "low on" to avoid ambiguity. Be mindful of using "low on" for non-quantifiable concepts, which can reduce the phrase’s effectiveness. While widely accepted, understanding its usage nuances ensures clarity and precision in your writing. For instance, consider contexts in which “"running short of"” or “lacking in” may be a better alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

short of

A more concise way of saying "low on", suitable for informal contexts.

lacking in

A general term for not having enough of something.

running short of

Focuses on the process of depletion rather than the state of being deficient.

in short supply of

Emphasizes the limited availability from a broader perspective.

depleted of

Implies that something has been used up or diminished.

scarce in

Highlights the rarity or infrequency of something.

limited in

Focuses on the constraint or restriction due to insufficient quantity.

deficient in

A more formal term for lacking a necessary amount.

strapped for

Specifically refers to a lack of money or resources, suggesting financial difficulty.

thin on the ground

An idiomatic expression indicating scarcity or rarity, often used for physical objects or people.

FAQs

How can I use "low on" in a sentence?

You can use "low on" to indicate a shortage or deficiency of something. For instance, "We are "running low on" supplies" or "The company is "low on funds"".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "low on"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "short of", "lacking in", or "deficient in" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always appropriate to use "low on" in formal writing?

While "low on" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "deficient in" or "in short supply of" might be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What does "low on" imply about the quantity of something?

"Low on" suggests that the quantity of something is insufficient or below the required level, but not necessarily completely absent. It indicates a state of depletion or near-exhaustion.