escaso
adjectiveUpper-intermediate
What does “escaso” mean in English?
scarce — in short supply; insufficient for the demand or need
scarce — in short supply; insufficient for the demand or need (recursos escasos, agua escasa)
Example sentences
Los recursos son escasos en esta región.
Resources are scarce in this region.
Tenemos escaso tiempo para terminar el proyecto.
We have little time to finish the project.
Las oportunidades laborales son escasas.
Job opportunities are scarce.
How to use it
'Escaso/a' means scarce or limited in supply. Used with ser/estar. The phrase 'andar escaso de' (to be short of) is a useful collocation. 'Apenas' and 'escasamente' are related adverbs. Contrasts with 'abundante' (abundant).
Common mistake
Don't use 'poco' and 'escaso' interchangeably in formal writing — 'escaso' implies critically low supply, 'poco' is neutral quantity.
Topics
Related Upper-intermediate words
Reference
This entry’s teaching guidance follows Plan Curricular del Instituto Cervantes (Instituto Cervantes), B2 Nociones: cantidad.