Using shortage and lack

[Deya]

ESL/EFL Test "At the Office (1)", question 9

Currently there is a shortage of clerical staff but it is hoped that by the end of the year they will be up to full ..........

(a) capability
(b) capacity
(c) control
(d) capable

ESL/EFL Test "At the Office (1)", answer 9

Currently there is a shortage of clerical staff but it is hoped that by the end of the year they will be up to full capacity.

Correct answer: (b) capacity

Your answer was: incorrect
Currently there is a shortage of clerical staff but it is hoped that by the end of the year they will be up to full capability.
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Hi,
When do we use shortage and when lack?

Deya

[Alan]

Hi Deya,

Shortage of suggests there are not enough people as used in my sentence or of things. Lack is often used with abstract concepts as in lack of courage/enthusiasm/initiative.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Word Story: Search Engines

[Deya]

Thank you, Alan.
I've grasped the meaning.