What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
meagre
Example
The family survived on a meagre income for years. [meagre: adjective]
Example
The company's profits were meagre compared to last year. [meagre: adjective]
scanty
Example
The hotel had only scanty amenities for its guests. [scanty: adjective]
Example
The report provided scanty information about the incident. [scanty: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scanty is more commonly used in American English, while meagre is more common in British English. Both words are less common in everyday language and are more likely to be used in formal or written contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between meagre and scanty?
Both meagre and scanty are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, meagre may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its French origins.
