‘Rare’ means unique. It indicates that the frequency of something happening or existing is less. Moreover, all scarce items are not rare! At times, non-rare or common items can be scarce too. Words like ‘scarce’ and ‘rare’ are used quite interchangeably in general communication. While saying something like ‘Time is a ______ commodity for some’, we usually do not worry whether to choose ‘rare’ or ‘scarce’. We just pick one and write the sentence without putting much thought into it. In most cases, the listener gets the meaning without any trouble. However, can we take the same liberty in academic writing? Technically, no! Both ‘rare’ and ‘scarce’ are adjectives that mean ‘something is less or hard to come by’. But they have a subtle difference in their meanings.

2. Rare Vs. Scarce- Know The Difference
‘Rare’ means unique. It indicates that the frequency of something
happening or existing is less.
Moreover, all scarce items are not rare! At times, non-rare or common
items can be scarce too.
Words like ‘scarce’ and ‘rare’ are used quite interchangeably in general
communication.
Both ‘rare’ and ‘scarce’ are adjectives that mean ‘something is less or hard
to come by’. But they have a subtle difference in their meanings.

3. What is Rare?
‘Rare’ means unique. It indicates that the frequency of something
is less. For instance,
A rare virus was suspected.
Rare items are always few, which leads to high cost!
For instance,
Purple carrots are rare.

4. What is Scarce?
‘Scarce’ means insufficient or meagre. It shows that the quantity of
For instance,
The anthrax vaccine is scarce in developing countries.
Moreover, all scarce items are not rare! At times, non-rare or common
scarce too. For instance,
Water is scarce during summer.

5. In academic writing, information related to frequency and quantity is
often discussed or reported. So, choosing between ‘scarce’ and ‘rare’
correctly is crucial to avoid discrepancies or misinterpretation.
It could be a fiddly job, but fortunately, we have a trick to help you!
‘S’ for Shortage, ‘S’ for Scarce!
If there is a shortage in the supply of a particular thing, ‘scarce’ is the
right word to use.
When a particular thing is not ordinary or common, use ‘rare’.
There you go! No more head-scratching over these ‘not-so-less’
confusing words!

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