C1noun 3K

Surplus

🇬🇧 UK //ˈsɜːpləs// 🇺🇸 US //ˈsɜːrpləs//

Meaning of Surplus

An amount of something left over when requirements have been met.

In simple words: An amount that is more than necessary.

Surplus in a sentence

• The country had a budget surplus this year.
• They decided to invest their surplus in new technology.
• Many farmers faced a surplus of crops that went unsold.
• The surplus in their account allowed them to save for emergencies.
• He felt a sense of surplus joy after achieving his goals.

How to use Surplus

Use 'surplus' in contexts related to economics or quantities. It's appropriate in both formal and informal discussions but may be avoided in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

surplus + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'sur-plus' as a plus sign (+) indicating more than needed.

Related words

Collocations with Surplus

• budget surplus
• food surplus
• surplus inventory

Synonyms for Surplus

• excess
• overflow
• surfeit
• remainder
• overabundance

Opposites of Surplus

• deficit
• lack
• shortage

Common mistakes with Surplus

• Used 'surplus' as a verb instead of a noun.
• Confused 'surplus' with 'deficit'.
• Incorrectly pluralized 'surplus'.

Frequently asked questions about Surplus

What does Surplus mean?

An amount that is more than necessary.

What is the definition of Surplus?

An amount of something left over when requirements have been met.

How do you use Surplus in a sentence?

The country had a budget surplus this year.

Can you give another example of Surplus?

They decided to invest their surplus in new technology.

What are synonyms for Surplus?

Common alternatives include excess, overflow, surfeit, remainder, overabundance.

What is the opposite of Surplus?

Opposite meanings include deficit, lack, shortage.

What words go with Surplus?

It commonly pairs with budget surplus, food surplus, surplus inventory.

What are common mistakes when using Surplus?

Used 'surplus' as a verb instead of a noun. Confused 'surplus' with 'deficit'. Incorrectly pluralized 'surplus'.

How do you pronounce Surplus?

US: //ˈsɜːrpləs//, UK: //ˈsɜːpləs//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Surplus?

Use 'surplus' in contexts related to economics or quantities. It's appropriate in both formal and informal discussions but may be avoided in casual conversation.

What CEFR level is Surplus?

"Surplus" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.