Definitions
- Describing a small or inadequate amount of something, such as food or money. - Referring to a thin or weak appearance, such as a meagre plant or animal. - Talking about a limited or insufficient quantity or quality of something.
- Describing an insignificant or trivial amount of something. - Referring to a low or inferior quality of something. - Talking about something that is considered worthless or contemptible.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a small or inadequate amount or quality of something.
- 2Both words have negative connotations.
- 3Both words can be used to express disappointment or dissatisfaction.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Meagre is more commonly used in British English, while paltry is more common in American English.
- 2Intensity: Paltry is more intense and carries a stronger negative connotation than meagre.
- 3Scope: Meagre can refer to both quantity and quality, while paltry is mainly used to describe quantity.
- 4Formality: Meagre is more formal than paltry, which is often used in informal contexts.
Remember this!
Meagre and paltry are synonyms that describe a small or inadequate amount or quality of something. However, paltry is more intense and negative than meagre, and is mainly used to describe quantity rather than quality. While meagre can be used in both formal and informal contexts, paltry is more informal and commonly used in American English.
