exiguous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
exiguous Word Meanings
- very small or scanty
- insufficient in quantity
- minimal or meager
exiguous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
exiguous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪɡˈzɪɡ.ju.əs/
US
/ɪɡˈzɪɡ.ju.əs/
exiguous Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'ex-' (out) + 'igus' (to drive). Historical origin: Latin 'exiguus' → Old French 'exigu' → English. Memory image: Picture a tiny seed struggling to push through the soil, representing something very small or insufficient.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Exiguous is a formal adjective meaning very small or scanty, often implying insufficiency beyond mere smallness. It appears in scholarly, legal, or literary prose to describe quantities, evidence, resources, or opportunities that are so limited they barely meet a need. It carries a nuance of deficiency or inadequacy, rather than a neutral small size, and is typically used when critics or analysts stress the gap between what exists and what is required. Learners should note that exiguous is stronger and more formal than small or meager, and it is less common in everyday speech, making it easy to misplace in casual writing.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Reserve exiguous for formal or analytical contexts.
- 2. Pair with nouns that imply insufficiency (evidence, resources, margins).
- 3. Don’t overuse; it can sound archaic in casual writing.
- 4. Compare with meager or scant to choose the right nuance.
- 5. Watch collocations and avoid literal replacements with tiny or small.
Common Misconceptions
- It means very small in size but not necessarily insufficient.
- It is a casual everyday word you can use anywhere.
- It is interchangeable with tiny, little, or small without nuance.
- It only describes numbers, not quality or adequacy.
- It is common in spoken language.
Thinking Differences
Exiguous tends to carry a stronger, more formal nuance than plain small in English; learners often overgeneralize to any tiny amount. In casual contexts, you’d opt for tiny or small, while exiguous fits budgets, evidence, or margins where insufficiency is deliberate or critical.
Learning Tips
- Read exiguous in formal writing to understand tone.
- Compare with scarce and meager to feel nuance.
- Practice with budgets, margins, and evidentiary contexts.
- Notice collocations like exiguous evidence and exiguous resources.
- Avoid overusing; reserve for sophisticated prose.
- Create your own sample sentences.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'exiguous'?
A.Large and extensive
B.Abundant and plentiful
C.Scarce or in small amount
D.Complex and intricate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'exiguous' correctly?
A.His exiguous collection of books was impressive for an avid reader.
B.She had an exiguous amount of time to complete the project, so she rushed.
C.The exiguous rainfall this season resulted in several droughts.
D.The exiguous cake was enough to serve all the guests.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'exiguous'?
A.Joyful
B.Scarce
C.Abundant
D.Sufficient
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'exiguous'?
A.Ample
B.Insufficient
C.Minimal
D.Inadequate
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where resources are limited?
A.During the crisis, many people found that their resources were stretched and limited.
B.A nation with abundant natural resources is thriving economically.
C.The city recently opened a large new park for residents to enjoy.
D.The festival had plenty of food for everyone to enjoy.
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