Scarce
easyNegative toneskairs
adjective
Definition
Insufficient for the demand; rare
Memory hook
When things are SCARCE, you're SCARED you won't get enough — rare and insufficient.
Examples
“Clean water is scarce in many regions.”
“Jobs were scarce during the recession.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Clean water is ______ in many regions.”
Show answer
scarce
Categories
GRE Tip
Scarce is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "rare" or "sparse" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "abundant".
Related GRE Words
meager
Lacking in quantity or quality; insufficient
insufficient
Not enough; inadequate
abundant
Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful
bountiful
Large in quantity; abundant; giving generously
enormous
Very large in size, quantity, or extent
excessive
More than is necessary, normal, or desirable; immoderate
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