Both Uses of
scarcity
in
Pride and Prejudice
- Elizabeth Bennet had been obliged, by the scarcity of gentlemen, to sit down for two dances; and during part of that time, Mr. Darcy had been standing near enough for her to hear a conversation between him and Mr. Bingley, who came from the dance for a few minutes, to press his friend to join it.†
Chpt 3 *
- He danced only four dances, though gentlemen were scarce; and, to my certain knowledge, more than one young lady was sitting down in want of a partner.†
Chpt 31
Definition:
-
(scarcity) shortage (having an amount that is less than desired)