The phrase "run short" can be a bit tricky to spell. The "r" sound is followed by the "uh" or schwa sound, written as "ə" in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Then comes the "n" sound, followed by the "sh" sound, written as "ʃ" in IPA. Finally, the "ort" sound is spelled with the letters "o-r-t" in English. So, the IPA transcription for "run short" would be /rʌn ʃɔrt/. This phrase means to have a shortage or be lacking in something.
The expression "run short" is a phrasal verb that describes the state or act of not having enough of something, usually a commodity or resource, therefore having an insufficient amount to meet a particular purpose or demand. It conveys the idea of depleting or exhausting a supply before it was anticipated.
When someone or something "runs short," it means they are quickly using up or consuming a limited resource, resulting in its scarcity or depletion. This phrase can be used in various contexts, such as materials, money, time, or even intangible elements like patience or options.
For instance, in the context of materials, a construction project may "run short" of bricks if the initial stock was undercalculated, leaving them insufficient for the intended use. Similarly, one might "run short" of money when expenses surpass the available funds, hindering the ability to meet financial obligations.
In a broader sense, "run short" can describe the general state of having an inadequate supply of something, such as running short on time before a deadline or running short on options when faced with limited choices.
Overall, the phrase "run short" signifies the notion of running out or reaching a point of insufficiency in relation to a particular resource, emphasizing the need for additional supply or a revision of plans to address the shortage.
The etymology of the term "run short" can be traced back to Middle English and Old English.
The verb "run" in this context means to move or flow quickly, or to operate or function, indicating the continuous action of something. Its Old English root is "rinnan", which meant "to flow" or "to run".
The term "short" comes from Old English "sceort", meaning "not long" or "lacking in length". It referred to the opposite of long or sufficient.
When combined, "run short" refers to the act of running out or being in insufficient supply of something, especially in terms of quantity or time. The phrase implies a temporary or finite availability that will soon be depleted.