Scantiness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scantiness

[หˆskรฆntinษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

lack of

The state or quality of being meager, insufficient, or scarce.

Synonyms

insufficiency, meagerness, scarcity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scantiness

Used when referring to a small quantity or insufficient amount that suggests an obvious lack. Often used in relation to clothing or resources.

  • The scantiness of the fabric made the dress inappropriate for the occasion.
  • The scantiness of the provisions meant they had to ration their food carefully.
insufficiency

Applied in more formal or technical discussions to denote a lack of adequate amount, quality, or ability. Often related to medical, financial, and resource contexts.

  • The project was delayed due to the insufficiency of funds.
  • Doctors diagnosed the patient with cardiac insufficiency.
meagerness

Highlights an extremely small or inadequate amount, often used in everyday language to convey dissatisfaction or criticism. Often associated with portions of food or income.

  • The meagerness of his paycheck left him struggling to make ends meet.
  • The meagerness of the meal left everyone still hungry.
scarcity

Used to indicate a shortage or lack of something in general, especially when it's vital or in high demand. Common in discussions about economic or natural resources.

  • The scarcity of clean water is a major issue in many parts of the world.
  • There was a scarcity of job opportunities in the small town.

Examples of usage

  • The scantiness of food supplies forced the refugees to ration their meals.
  • Despite the scantiness of evidence, the detective was able to solve the case.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'scantiness'

The word 'scantiness' originated from the Middle English word 'scante', meaning 'shortage'. Over time, it evolved to represent the state of being meager or insufficient. The concept of scantiness is often associated with scarcity and lack of abundance, highlighting the importance of resource management and allocation in various contexts.


See also: scant, scantily, scantly, scanty.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,696 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.