short rations

In this respect, manager Fabio Capello had to make do with short rations on the goalkeeping front.

"I think we had better put ourselves on short rations," Terence said.

He would have to live on short rations until then but it could not be helped.

In spite of short rations she gave enough milk to keep six men busy skimming the cream.

"And I'm just as happy one place as the other, so long as the cook doesn't strike, or put us on short rations," added Bluff.

I'd hate to put 'em on short rations, on account of unexpected company, because it gives the ship a bad name.