Poorly-lit

Describes an environment or space that lacks sufficient illumination, resulting in dimness, obscurity, or inadequate visibility. This condition can be caused by insufficient or weak light sources, improperly positioned lighting fixtures, or obstructions that block light. The term emphasizes the deficiency in the amount and/or quality of light available, creating challenges for perception, navigation, and sometimes safety. poorly-lit areas often cast shadows and can contribute to a sense of gloom or unease. The degree of 'poorly-lit' can range from slightly dim to near-total darkness.

Poorly-lit meaning with examples

• The old library was poorly-lit, with only a few flickering lamps casting weak shadows across the towering bookshelves. Finding a specific volume required squinting and a good deal of patience. Dust motes danced in the faint beams, adding to the general atmosphere of forgotten knowledge and whispered secrets. The dim environment created a sense of isolation, enhancing the hushed tones of the room.
• Navigating the poorly-lit alleyway late at night proved treacherous; unseen obstacles and lurking shadows made each step uncertain. The flickering streetlight at the entrance barely offered assistance, leaving much of the area in near darkness. The lack of visibility amplified the sounds of the city, creating an unsettling and potentially dangerous environment. The fear of the unknown made the experience all the more intense.
• The photography studio was intentionally designed to be poorly-lit to highlight the shadows and enhance the mood of the portraiture. Soft, diffused light was carefully controlled to create a dramatic effect, drawing attention to the subject's face and capturing a sense of depth. This deliberate lack of brightness allowed the photographer to manipulate the light for artistic purposes, creating a distinct and memorable visual aesthetic.
• The backstage area of the theater was poorly-lit, a maze of props, costumes, and equipment in the shadows. Performers stumbled around between acts, relying on handheld flashlights to avoid tripping over cables or bumping into furniture. The darkness and disorganization made quick changes difficult and often resulted in minor mishaps. Despite these challenges, the backstage was always alive with a hurried, energetic buzz.
• The haunted house was purposefully designed to be poorly-lit, using strategically placed shadows and dim lighting to amplify the scare factor. The limited visibility created an unsettling atmosphere, making it difficult to distinguish between real objects and illusions. Every creak and groan of the aging building in the dark corner would amplify the scare by amplifying the imagination. The dimly-lit environment contributed significantly to the overall thrill of the experience.