What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sparsely
Example
The trees were sparsely distributed across the vast plain. [sparsely: adverb]
Example
The sparsely populated town had only a few hundred residents. [sparsely: adjective]
thinly
Example
The snow was thinly covering the ground. [thinly: adverb]
Example
The thinly settled region had only a few scattered houses. [thinly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sparsely and thinly are both less common words in everyday language and are more likely to be used in formal or academic writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sparsely and thinly?
Both sparsely and thinly are more formal words and are less likely to be used in casual conversation. However, sparsely may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
