# shortness

/ˈʃɔɹtnəs/ (US) · /ʃˈɔːtnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shortness
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the quality of being small in size or amount. It can also describe a lack of something, like time or money.

For teachers: the state of being small in size, amount, or duration; a lack or deficiency of something.

## Examples

- The shortness of the summer days makes me sad.
- The shortness of the budget meant the team could not afford to hire a new assistant.
- The shortness of the final chapter suggests the author was forced to conclude the narrative before the plot could reach its natural resolution.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.