Short On – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever looked for money in your wallet only to find you don’t have enough? Maybe you need to finish a project but don’t have enough time? When you don’t have enough of something, we say you are short on it. This phrasal verb is extremely useful for talking about lacking time, money, supplies, or even qualities.
What Does “Short On” Mean?
The phrasal verb “short on” means to have an insufficient amount or supply of something needed. It is always followed by the thing that is lacking. Think of it like a ruler that doesn’t reach the full measurement you need—it falls “short.”
When to Use It
You can use short on in many everyday situations involving lack or need.
- Money: “I am short on cash right now.”
- Time: “We are short on time to finish the report.”
- Supplies: “The office is short on paper for the printer.”
- Qualities: “The management is short on good ideas.”
This phrase is informal and very common in casual conversation.
Example Sentences
- The store clerk said they were short on milk until the next delivery.
- We can’t go to the movie because I’m short on money today.
- Please hurry; we are getting short on patience!
- The construction crew was short on help, so they couldn’t finish the work.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Are you coming to the party tonight?”
Jamie: “I wish I could, but I’m short on sleep this week. I need to rest.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
“Short on” is used only for things you possess or need. Don’t confuse it with physical height or distance.
❌ Don’t: “The runner was short on the finish line.” (This is incorrect. Use “short of” or “didn’t reach.”)
✅ Do: “The kitchen is short on sugar for the recipe.” (This means there is not enough sugar available.)
Practice Tip
Think of one item or resource you wish you had more of today (like time or coffee). Write a sentence using short on to explain your situation.
Final Note
Using short on helps you explain your current needs and limitations clearly and quickly. Don’t be short on confidence—use this phrase often!
