Patchily

Patchily is an adverb that describes something done or occurring in an uneven or irregular manner, with gaps or inconsistencies. It suggests a lack of uniformity, where certain areas or aspects are complete or present while others are missing or deficient. This can apply to physical surfaces, such as a wall needing repainting, or abstract concepts like the effectiveness of a plan or the distribution of something. The term often implies a lack of thoroughness or a consequence of incomplete coverage or application. The effect of something done patchily is often noticeable and can create a sense of imperfection or incompletion, suggesting the need for further work or adjustment to achieve uniformity or the desired result.

Patchily meaning with examples

• The garden, unfortunately, was cultivated patchily this year. Some areas flourished with vibrant blooms, while others were overgrown with weeds and remained bare, a testament to inconsistent watering and weeding efforts that created a striking contrast in the otherwise beautiful landscape. The uneven growth showed how the care was given in an inconsistent pattern.
• The information was presented patchily throughout the report. Some sections contained detailed data and insightful analysis, while others were superficial and lacking in supporting evidence. This uneven distribution of quality made it difficult for readers to gain a complete and comprehensive understanding of the complex issues presented.
• His attendance at the training sessions was patchily consistent. He would show up for a few days in a row, participate actively, and then disappear for a week or two. This erratic participation hindered his progress and deprived him of crucial opportunities to master new skills needed for his work.
• The paint on the old fence had weathered patchily due to sun and rain exposure, leaving the wood exposed and damaged in some sections and the original colors intact in others. The inconsistent wear and tear created a visually unappealing and needed prompt repairs, a signal of ongoing neglect to the structure.
• The government's policies were implemented patchily across different regions. While some areas benefited from increased infrastructure investment, other areas were neglected and remained underdeveloped. This uneven distribution led to resentment and calls for a more equitable and uniform allocation of resources.