How Do You Spell SHORT OF?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈɔːt ɒv] (IPA)

The phrase "short of" refers to lacking or not having enough of something. The correct spelling is /ʃɔːt ʌv/, with the first word pronounced with the "aw" sound as in "law" and the second word pronounced with the short "uh" sound as in "hut". It is important to use the correct spelling and pronunciation to effectively communicate your message.

SHORT OF Meaning and Definition

1. Short of is a commonly used phrase that has multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts. It is typically used to indicate a situation where there is a lack or deficiency of something. Below is a dictionary definition of "short of" with 200 words:

   Short of:

   1. Insufficient or inadequate: When used to describe a situation, short of indicates a state where the quantity or quality of something is not enough or falls below the expected or desired level. For instance, "We are short of funds to complete the project" implies a lack of financial resources necessary for its completion.

   2. Almost but not quite: Short of can also indicate an approach or nearness to a particular outcome, without actually achieving it. For example, "He fell just short of winning the race" means that he finished very close but did not win.

   3. In addition to or excluding: When used in the phrase "short of," it can also suggest a range or boundary, either including or excluding certain things. For instance, "Nothing short of a miracle will save us now" implies that only a miracle can save the situation, emphasizing the extremity of the circumstances.

   4. Other than or except: Short of can also denote a deviation from a general expectation or norm. For instance, "Short of a change in plans, we will meet at the usual time and place" suggests that unless there is a change in plans, the meeting will proceed as expected.

   In summary, "short of" is a versatile phrase used to express insufficiency or lack, approximate achievement, range or boundary, and exceptions or deviations from expectations. Its meaning is highly context-dependent, and understanding the intended usage is crucial for proper interpretation.

Common Misspellings for SHORT OF

• ahort of
• zhort of
• xhort of
• dhort of
• ehort of
• whort of
• sgort of
• sbort of
• snort of
• sjort of
• suort of
• syort of
• shirt of
• shkrt of
• shlrt of
• shprt of
• sh0rt of
• sh9rt of
• shoet of
• shodt of

Etymology of SHORT OF

The phrase "short of" can be traced back to the Old English word "sceort" which means "short" or "not long". The meaning of "short of" as it is commonly used today can be understood from the combination of "short" and the preposition "of".The preposition "of" is derived from the Old English word "of", which has Indo-European roots. In Old English, "of" was used to indicate an origin, possession, or relationship. Over time, it also came to express other meanings like cause, agent, or direction.When combined with "short", the phrase "short of" began to be used in the 16th century to convey the idea of lacking, falling behind, or being insufficient in reaching a certain goal or expectation. For example, if someone falls "short of" the required marks to pass an exam, it means they have not achieved the necessary results.

Idioms with the word SHORT OF

• not be short of a bob or two The idiom "not be short of a bob or two" means that someone is wealthy or has enough money. It implies that the person is financially comfortable or even affluent. In British English, "bob" is slang for a shilling, which was a coin used in the past, but the phrase is still understood to refer to having enough money.
• stop short of sth The idiom "stop short of something" means to almost reach or achieve a particular point or goal, but ultimately fall just below it or not go any further. It implies coming close to doing something but deciding against it for some reason or not quite taking a desired action.
• the long and the short of it The idiom "the long and the short of it" means to convey the essential and concise information or the main point of something. It is often used to summarize or conclude a discussion, story, or explanation by providing a clear and straightforward account of the most important details.
• be one sandwich short of a picnic The idiom "be one sandwich short of a picnic" is a humorous way of describing someone as being mentally or intellectually deficient or a little bit crazy. It implies that the person is not quite all there or has a lack of common sense or intelligence. It suggests that they are missing something essential or are not fully equipped to understand or handle a situation.
• one sandwich short of a picnic The idiom "one sandwich short of a picnic" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is perceived as not being very intelligent or mentally deficient. It suggests that the person lacks the basic understanding or knowledge required for a certain situation or is missing common sense. The idiom implies that if someone were to bring a picnic and forget one essential item, like a sandwich, it would indicate a lapse in their judgment or mental capacity.
• stop short of a place The idiom "stop short of a place" refers to stopping or ending an action or activity just before reaching the desired or expected outcome or goal.
• stop short of The idiom "stop short of" means to cease or refrain from proceeding or completing an action, usually just before reaching a certain point or achieving a particular result. It implies holding back or stopping oneself from going all the way or doing something entirely.
• long and the short of it The idiom "long and the short of it" means to sum up or provide a concise version of something, typically a complex or lengthy topic, by focusing on the most important points or the bottom line. It signifies expressing the main idea or essence without unnecessary details or elaboration.
• few bricks short of a load The idiom "few bricks short of a load" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is perceived to be mentally or intellectually deficient or lacking common sense. It implies that the person is missing some essential components needed for full functionality, just as a load of bricks would be incomplete without a few.
• be short of a bob or two The idiom "be short of a bob or two" refers to someone who is lacking intelligence or common sense. It suggests that the person is not mentally sharp or may be a bit foolish. The term "bob" was a slang term for a British shilling, so being "short of a bob or two" metaphorically implies a deficiency in logical reasoning or intellect.
• be one card cards short of a full deck The idiom "be one card short of a full deck" is used to describe someone who is considered mentally or intellectually deficient or lacking sound judgment. It suggests that the person is missing something vital (one card) from a complete set of cards, similar to how a full deck of cards is necessary for most card games.
• short of sth The idiom "short of something" refers to lacking or not having enough of something, falling below a desired or expected level. It implies a shortage, insufficiency, or deficiency in a particular resource, such as time, money, skill, or quantity.
• the long and the short of The idiom "the long and the short of" means to give a concise summary or main point of something. It refers to providing the essential details or bottom line of a situation, story, or argument.
• be not short of a bob or two The phrase "be not short of a bob or two" is an idiom commonly used in British English. It means to have a relatively large amount of money or to be financially well off. "Bob" is a slang term for a British shilling, which was used as currency in the UK before decimalization in 1971. Therefore, the idiom suggests that someone has an abundance of shillings, indicating wealth. In modern usage, "bob" is often used as a slang term for a pound (£), so the idiom can also refer to having a few pounds or being financially comfortable.
• a brick short of a load The idiom "a brick short of a load" is used to describe someone who is not mentally or intellectually sharp or capable, implying that they are missing something important or lacking common sense. It suggests that they are not fully functioning or operating at their full mental capacity.
• a few, two, etc. bricks short of a load The idiom "a few, two, etc. bricks short of a load" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is perceived to be lacking intelligence, common sense, or mental stability. It implies that the person is not mentally sound or may have a limited grasp on reality, similar to a stack of bricks being incomplete or insufficient for a load.
• be one brick short of a (full) load The idiom "be one brick short of a (full) load" is used to describe someone who is considered mentally or intellectually deficient, eccentric, or not fully comprehending a situation. It implies that the person is missing a crucial or necessary element, similar to a load of bricks missing one.
• one brick short of a (full) load The idiom "one brick short of a (full) load" is used to describe someone who is perceived as being mentally or intellectually deficient, lacking common sense, or not fully comprehending a situation. It suggests that the person is missing an essential element or has a significant flaw that hinders their capacity to function effectively.
• be one card short of a full deck The idiom "be one card short of a full deck" is commonly used to describe someone who is perceived as being mentally or intellectually lacking or unbalanced. It implies that the person is missing a crucial element necessary for complete understanding or rational behavior, similar to having a deck of playing cards with only 51 cards instead of 52.
• little/nothing short of sth The idiom "little/nothing short of sth" is used to emphasize that something surpasses or exceeds expectations. It indicates that the mentioned thing or situation is almost equal to or simply cannot be anything less than the description mentioned. It implies that the thing being referred to is extremely close to being the specified quality or achievement, or it is almost limitless in its exceptional nature.
• fall short of something The idiom "fall short of something" means to fail to meet or reach a desired expectation, standard, goal, or level of achievement. It implies that something or someone did not measure up or was insufficient in attaining the expected outcome.
• be several bricks short of a (full) load The idiom "be several bricks short of a (full) load" is used to describe someone who is not mentally or intellectually competent or capable. It suggests that the person is lacking intelligence, common sense, or rationality. It implies that the individual is mentally deficient or unable to grasp or understand things fully.
• be not short of a penny (or two) The idiom "be not short of a penny (or two)" means to be wealthy, financially secure, or not lacking money. It implies that someone has more than enough money or resources to meet their needs and desires.
• a brick short of a load, two sandwiches short of a picnic, etc. The idiom "a brick short of a load, two sandwiches short of a picnic, etc." is used to describe someone who is lacking intelligence or common sense. It implies that the person is not mentally capable or is mentally deficient in some way.
• come short of (something) The idiom "come short of (something)" means to not reach or achieve a particular goal or expectation. It refers to falling or failing to meet a desired outcome or standard.
• come short of sth The idiom "come short of sth" means to fail to achieve or reach a particular goal, standard, expectation, or desired outcome. It implies falling below the necessary level or falling just shy of accomplishing something.
• short of something/of doing something The idiom "short of something/of doing something" means to be lacking or not having enough of something, or to fall just shy of accomplishing or completing something. It indicates a state of not reaching a desired or expected level or outcome.
• be nothing short of astonishing/miraculous etc. The idiom "be nothing short of" is used to emphasize that something is extremely impressive, extraordinary, or remarkable. It implies that there is no other way to describe the greatness or magnitude of the subject being discussed. For example: - The musician's performance was nothing short of astonishing; it left the audience in awe. - The team's comeback in the game was nothing short of miraculous; they were able to overcome a huge point deficit. - The view from the mountaintop was nothing short of breathtaking; it was absolutely stunning.
• come short of The idiom "come short of" means to fail to reach or achieve something, to fall below expectations or requirements.
• stop short of something/of doing something To "stop short of something/of doing something" means to intentionally or consciously refrain from going all the way or completing a certain action. It suggests stopping or avoiding just before reaching a particular limit, point, or extreme. It implies exercising caution, restraint, or self-control before crossing a certain boundary or taking something to its fullest extent.
• be nothing short of (something) The idiom "be nothing short of (something)" means to be completely or absolutely (something), emphasizing the intensity, quality, or extent of a particular thing or action. It implies that there is no deviation or compromise in achieving the described characteristic.
• a few sandwiches short of a picnic The idiom "a few sandwiches short of a picnic" is used to describe someone who is not very intelligent, eccentric, or mentally unstable. It implies that the person is lacking common sense or is not quite mentally sound, analogous to someone who goes to a picnic without enough food.
• be one card/several cards short of a full deck The definition of the idiom "be one card/several cards short of a full deck" is to describe someone as being mentally unstable, eccentric, or unintelligent. It implies that the person lacks the necessary intelligence or rationality to fully function or make wise decisions, just like if a deck of cards were missing one or more cards, rendering it incomplete or imperfect.
• several bricks short of a (full) load The idiom "several bricks short of a (full) load" is used to describe someone who is not mentally or intellectually sharp, or lacks common sense. It implies that the person is not functioning at their full capacity, similar to a load of bricks missing a few necessary units.
• stop short of (doing something) The idiom "stop short of (doing something)" means to halt or refrain from completing a certain action or reaching a particular point. It implies that someone intentionally stops before going too far or taking an extreme measure.
• a few bricks short of a (full) load The idiom "a few bricks short of a (full) load" is used to describe someone who is lacking intelligence, common sense, or rationality. It implies that the person is mentally deficient or not functioning at full capacity. It suggests that they are missing a few crucial pieces or elements needed to fully comprehend or grasp a situation.
• short of (doing) something The idiom "short of (doing) something" means to be almost but not completely reaching a particular action or goal. It implies that the person or thing falls just shy of achieving or accomplishing something.
• be several cards short of a (full) deck The definition of the idiom "be several cards short of a (full) deck" is to describe someone as lacking intelligence or mental capacity. It implies that the person is not fully rational or sane.
• fall short of The idiom "fall short of" means to not meet expectations or to be insufficient or inadequate in some way. It implies that something or someone does not reach the desired level or standard.
• fall short of one's goal(s) The idiom "fall short of one's goal(s)" means to fail to achieve or reach the desired objectives or intended outcome. It implies that despite efforts or expectations, the person or entity has not successfully attained their goal or has fallen below the desired level of accomplishment.
• several cards short of a (full) deck The idiom "several cards short of a (full) deck" refers to someone who is not mentally or intellectually competent or capable. It implies that the person is lacking intelligence, common sense, or rationality, as if they are missing several key playing cards from a complete set, making them unable to fully function or understand situations.
• little/nothing short of something The idiom "little/nothing short of something" means that something or someone is almost exactly or very close to being the specified thing, often used to emphasize the magnitude or significance of what is being described. It suggests that there is very little difference or distinction between the actual thing and the described thing.
• nothing short of The definition of the idiom "nothing short of" is: almost, very close to, or nothing less than; absolutely or completely. This phrase is used to emphasize the degree or intensity of something, highlighting it as being exceptional or exceeding expectations.
• be nothing short of astonishing etc. The idiom "be nothing short of astonishing" means that something is extremely impressive or remarkable. It emphasizes that the thing being described goes beyond expectations and is truly extraordinary.
• stop short of doing The idiom "stop short of doing" means to intentionally refrain from completing or carrying out a certain action, usually due to caution or reserve. It suggests that the person or thing stops just before crossing a particular limit or boundary.
• fall short of goal The idiom "fall short of goal" means to not achieve or reach the desired objective or target. It implies that the efforts or actions taken were insufficient or inadequate to meet the intended outcome.
• a few fries short of a Happy Meal The idiom "a few fries short of a Happy Meal" is used to humorously describe someone who is not very intelligent or mentally lacking in some way. It implies that the person is missing something essential or is incomplete, likening them to an incomplete meal without all its components.
• short of The idiom "short of" means lacking something, not having enough of something, or falling just below a certain level or amount.
• short of a length The idiom "short of a length" typically refers to falling slightly behind expectations or standards, not quite meeting the desired level or criteria. It is often used to describe something that is slightly lacking or not as complete or thorough as it should be.
• be nothing short of... "Be nothing short of..." is used to emphasize that something or someone exceeds expectations or is remarkable in some way. It suggests that there is nothing lacking or incomplete about the subject being referred to.