undermanned

/'ʌndə'mænd/

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Explanation of the Word "Undermanned"

Definition: The word "undermanned" is an adjective used to describe a situation where there are not enough people working in a particular place or on a specific task. This means that the number of workers is less than what is needed.

Example Sentence:

• "The restaurant was undermanned during the busy dinner hours, so customers had to wait a long time for their food."

Advanced Usage:

In a business context, you might say, "The project team is currently undermanned, which could delay the completion of our deadline." This indicates that the team lacks enough personnel to complete their work efficiently.

Word Variants:

• Underman (verb): To provide fewer workers than needed.
  • Example: "They had to underman the project due to budget cuts."
• Undermanning (noun): The act of having fewer workers.
  • Example: "Undermaning has led to increased stress for the remaining employees."

Different Meanings:

"Undermanned" specifically refers to the inadequacy of workers. It does not have different meanings but can be used in various contexts such as hospitals, schools, or businesses.

Synonyms:

• Short-staffed
• Understaffed
• Inadequately staffed
• Shorthanded

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Short-handed: This is a synonym for "undermanned" and is used similarly.

  • Example: "They were short-handed after several employees called in sick."

• Pick up the slack: This idiom means to do extra work to help when there are not enough people to do the job.

  • Example: "Since we are undermanned, I will need you to pick up the slack for the team."

Summary:

"Undermanned" describes a situation in which there are not enough workers to meet the demands of a job.

Academic

Adjective

1. inadequate in number of workers or assistants etc.
   • they're rather short-handed at the moment
   • overcrowded and understaffed hospitals

Synonyms

• short-handed
• short-staffed
• understaffed