The phrase "are short of" is an idiomatic expression used to indicate a lack or insufficiency of something. When we say that we are short of something, we mean that we do not have the required amount or quantity necessary for a particular purpose or need.
This expression is commonly used to refer to a shortage or deficiency in resources, such as money, time, personnel, or supplies. For instance, if someone says they are short of money, it implies that they do not have enough funds to meet their financial obligations or fulfill their desires.
The phrase can also be used to describe a scarcity or dearth in other areas, such as food, space, energy, or ideas. For example, if a supermarket is short of produce, it means the store does not have enough fruits and vegetables in stock to meet customers' demands.
Furthermore, the expression can be applied to situations where there is a lack of a specific quality or attribute. For instance, if someone says they are short of patience, it suggests that they have a limited amount of tolerance or ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
In summary, "are short of" denotes a state of inadequacy, deficiency, scarcity, or insufficiency in terms of resources, quantities, qualities, or attributes required for a given purpose.
