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Scanty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scanty

[หˆskan.ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

clothing

Consisting of or involving a small amount; minimal.

Synonyms

limited, meager, sparse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scanty

This word is often used to describe something that is too small or not enough, especially in terms of quantity or amount. It can have a slightly negative connotation when implying insufficiency.

  • The information provided was scanty, leaving us with more questions than answers
  • The villagers had to survive on scanty food supplies during the drought
sparse

Refers to something thinly dispersed or scattered, often implying that there is a small number of something spread out over an area. It can be neutral or sometimes has a slightly negative critique.

  • The vegetation was sparse in the desert landscape
  • Attendance at the meeting was sparse, with only a handful of attendees
meager

Often used to describe something lacking in quantity or quality, this word has a negative connotation and implies insufficiency or inadequacy.

  • His meager income couldn't cover his basic living expenses
  • The meal was meager and left them still hungry
limited

Generally used when something is restricted in size, amount, or scope. The word doesn't necessarily imply a negative connotation.

  • Due to limited space, only a few guests can be invited to the event
  • His knowledge of the subject was limited, so he had to do more research

Examples of usage

  • She wore a scanty bikini to the beach.
  • He had a scanty wardrobe with only a few outfits.
Context #2 | Adjective

resources

Insufficient; inadequate.

Synonyms

deficient, scant, scarce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scanty

Used to describe something that is very minimal or insufficient, often related to clothing or resources.

  • Her clothing was rather scanty for the cold weather.
  • The information provided was scanty and not very helpful.
scarce

Used when referring to something that is hard to find or in short supply. It often emphasizes rarity or insufficient availability.

  • Water is scarce in the desert.
  • Clean energy resources are still scarce in many parts of the world.
scant

Often used to describe something that is barely sufficient or insufficient in amount or quantity. It can carry a slightly negative connotation as it implies a lack.

  • He gave me scant details about the meeting.
  • The funds were scant to cover all the expenses.
deficient

Typically used in more formal contexts to describe a lack or inadequacy, especially when referring to quantities or quality.

  • The diet was deficient in essential vitamins.
  • The project was deficient in several critical aspects.

Examples of usage

  • The company had to make do with scanty resources.
  • The village suffered from scanty water supply.
Context #3 | Adjective

information

Lacking in quantity or quality; meager.

Synonyms

inadequate, limited, scant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scanty

It is used to describe something that is insufficient in amount, often referring to clothing, information, or resources. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • The survivors had only scanty supplies of food and water
  • Her scanty outfit drew a lot of attention
inadequate

This is typically used in formal contexts to describe something insufficient to meet a need or standard. It carries a clear negative connotation.

  • The funding for public schools is inadequate
  • His performance was inadequate for a promotion
limited

This word describes something that is restricted or confined in scope, quantity, or extent. It's neutral in tone and often used in various contexts.

  • Our options are limited due to budget constraints
  • The product comes with a limited warranty
scant

Used similarly to 'scanty,' often referring to amounts that are barely sufficient. It can hint at insufficiency and carry a slightly negative feeling.

  • The evidence provided was scant and unconvincing
  • They survived on scant resources during the expedition

Examples of usage

  • The report provided only scanty information about the incident.
  • Her knowledge on the subject was scanty.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Usage

  • In fashion, 'scanty attire' refers to clothing that covers very little, often seen in swimwear or summer outfits.
  • The term is sometimes used in literature to describe a meager or insufficient amount of resources or support.
  • In diet discussions, a 'scanty diet' signifies not consuming adequate nutrition, which can be unhealthy.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that people frequently perceive scant resources as more valuable due to scarcity mindset.
  • A scanty budget can cause stress and anxiety, making effective management crucial for well-being.
  • Scant social support can lead to feelings of isolation, showcasing the importance of community.

Communication

  • Using the term โ€˜scantyโ€™ in conversations can imply dissatisfaction with the lack of information or resources.
  • In storytelling, a scanty description might create mystery, leaving readers eager for more detail.
  • Describing an explanation as scanty suggests it's lacking in depth or breadth, prompting requests for clarification.

Environmental Science

  • Scanty vegetation in an area can indicate poor soil health or adverse weather conditions.
  • In terms of wildlife, scanty food sources can lead to larger consequences for animal populations.
  • The observation of scanty rainfall impacts agricultural planning and water resource management.

Origin of 'scanty'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'scanty' comes from the Middle English word 'scante', which means 'little' or 'not enough'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'skammr', meaning 'short', hinting at the idea of something being limited.
  • The first recorded use of 'scanty' in English dates back to the 14th century.

The word 'scanty' originated from the late 16th century, derived from the Old Norse word 'skamt'. Over time, it evolved in meaning to represent something minimal or insufficient. The adjective 'scanty' has been used in various contexts to describe a small amount, inadequate resources, or limited information.

See also: scant, scantily, scantiness, scantly.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,427, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.