Scantness

Scantness refers to the state or quality of being insufficient in amount, quantity, or extent; the deficiency or lack of something considered necessary or desirable. It implies a shortage, meagerness, or a bare minimum. This lack can be applied to various aspects, including resources, supplies, information, or even time. Often, scantness implies a sense of inadequacy, where what is available falls short of what is needed or expected. This can lead to difficulties, limitations, or dissatisfaction depending on the context of its use.

Scantness meaning with examples

• The farm's scantness of rainfall throughout the summer devastated the crops. Farmers struggled to provide for their livestock. The harvest was substantially reduced because the crops would not grow. It created problems in terms of supply which forced prices to skyrocket.
• Despite the project's importance, the scantness of funding significantly hampered progress. The team was forced to make difficult decisions. With too few resources, they had to cut back on staffing. This led to delays and a reduction in the scope of the research.
• Due to the scantness of reliable historical documentation, the true events surrounding the king's reign remain somewhat mysterious. Biographers have filled in gaps with conjecture. Despite the available information, it is all too often lacking in detail.
• When the hikers reached the emergency supplies, they were dismayed by the scantness of the food and water. They realised they must ration it carefully. They worried about the journey ahead because they were uncertain of supplies on the upcoming trek.