shortage crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "shortage" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "shortage crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LACK: A deficiency or absence of something needed.
WANT: The state of lacking something desired or needed.
NEED: A requirement or necessity, often implying a lack.
6 Letters
DEARTH: A scarcity or lack of something.
7 Letters
DEFICIT: The amount by which something, especially a sum of money, is too small.
PAUCITY: The presence of something only in small or insufficient quantities or amounts.
8 Letters
SCARCITY: The state of being scarce or in short supply; shortage.
9 Letters
SHORTFALL: A deficit of something required or expected.
More About "shortage crossword clue"
The term "shortage" is a very common and versatile clue in crosswords, often pointing to a general lack or insufficiency. Depending on the puzzle's theme or specific context, the answer could range from simple, everyday words to more formal or economic terms. For example, a clue might specify a "food shortage," guiding you towards answers like FAMINE or DEARTH, whereas a "budget shortage" would lean towards DEFICIT or LACK.
To successfully solve clues like "shortage," it's crucial to consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have. Synonyms are your best friend here, as many words convey the meaning of 'not enough'. Think broadly about what can be in short supply – resources, time, money, or even abstract qualities like patience.
Our database compiles the most frequent answers used in various crossword puzzles, from daily newspapers to more challenging cryptic crosswords, ensuring you have the most likely solutions at your fingertips. Remember to always double-check your chosen answer against other intersecting words to ensure it fits the overall puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: While "shortage" is straightforward, clues often have subtle hints. Is it plural? Does it imply a specific type of shortage (e.g., "money shortage")?
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the known letter count in your grid with the possible answers. This is the most effective way to narrow down options for clues like "shortage."
- Think of Synonyms: For common words like "shortage," brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. LACK, DEARTH, SCARCITY, DEFICIT, and WANT are all strong candidates.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't just guess! If you have letters from crossing words, use them to confirm or eliminate potential answers. This is vital for tricky clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a common 4-letter answer for 'shortage' in crosswords?
A very common 4-letter answer for 'shortage' is LACK. Other possibilities include WANT or NEED, depending on the specific puzzle's context.
How can I find longer answers for a 'shortage' clue?
For longer answers, consider synonyms like DEARTH (6 letters), DEFICIT (7 letters), SCARCITY (8 letters), or SHORTFALL (9 letters). The length of the blank in your crossword grid will guide you.
Are there different types of 'shortages' in crossword clues?
Yes, 'shortage' clues can sometimes imply a specific context, like a 'money shortage' (DEFICIT, POVERTY) or a 'food shortage' (FAMINE, DEARTH). Always consider the surrounding clues for hints.