供不应求

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"供不应求" literally means "supply does not meet demand." It is used to describe situations where the quantity of goods or services available is insufficient to satisfy the demand. This phrase often appears in economic, commercial, or everyday contexts when discussing shortages.

Common Contexts

You will frequently hear "供不应求" in news reports about product shortages, during festivals when demand spikes, or when a popular item sells out quickly. It emphasizes a gap between supply and demand, often implying urgency or a need to increase production.

Collocations and Patterns

Usage Tips

This phrase is formal and often used in written or formal spoken Chinese. It is not used to describe personal or abstract desires but specifically refers to tangible goods or services. Avoid confusing it with similar phrases like "需求" (demand exceeds supply), which has a slightly different nuance focusing on excessive demand rather than insufficient supply.

Example Sentences

Recently, the demand for masks has surged, causing a supply shortage in the

This brand's phones have consistently been in short supply due to their good

During the holidays, the demand for fresh flowers surged, resulting in