meager - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meager Word Meanings
- lacking in quantity or quality
- thin or emaciated
- insufficient or scanty
meager Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
meager Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmiːɡə/
US
/ˈmiɡər/
meager Word Etymology
meager = meager + -ly (adjective suffix) → Latin 'macrum' (thin) → Old French 'maigre' → English. Imagine a thin, starving animal barely surviving; its meager appearance captures scarcity.
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
Meager describes a small amount or poor quality that is unsatisfactory or disappointing. It can refer to quantity, quality, or adequacy, and it often carries a tone of complaint or sympathy. You can say a meager meal, a meager income, or meager resources, suggesting scarcity or insufficiency rather than a neutral grade. In everyday speech it can imply not enough to meet needs, sometimes with a moral or ethical judgment (meager philanthropic effort). In British English, the spelling 'meagre' is used; the meaning remains the same. Visualize a thin, underfed animal to remember scarcity.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'meager' for scarce quantity or poor quality.
- Describe things, not people.
- Note the British spelling 'meagre'.
- Common collocations: meager meal, meager income, meager resources.
- The tone is negative or critical; avoid neutral descriptions when describing deficiencies.
Common Misconceptions
- Meager is not the same as 'scarce' in every situation; 'scarce' is more neutral.
- Do not use meager to describe people directly.
- Meager emphasizes insufficiency, not just small size.
- Meager and meagre have the same meaning; use the one you prefer.
- Avoid using meager to describe something positive or admirable.
Thinking Differences
Meager signals not just a small amount but a judgment about insufficiency; English speakers often pair it with negative tone or sympathy, while learners may overuse it in neutral contexts.
Learning Tips
- Memorize common collocations (meager meal, meager income, meager resources).
- Compare with scarce and meagre to sense tone differences.
- Practice describing different kinds of insufficiency (time, funds, quality).
- Note the British spelling meagre and use it in appropriate contexts.
- Use meager in opinions or editorials to convey critique, not neutral facts.
- Read and listen to sentences that show the emotional nuance of scarcity.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'meager' correctly?
A.She had a meager breakfast before running a marathon.
B.The meager tree produced an abundance of fruits.
C.He received a meager pay raise as a reward for his hard work.
D.They enjoyed a meager meal at the luxurious restaurant.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'meager'?
A.Adequate
B.Scanty
C.Plentiful
D.Generous
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meager'?
A.Impoverished
B.Sparse
C.Abundant
D.Scarce
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where having a meager supply would be challenging?
A.Managing a large-scale buffet restaurant
B.Preparing for a long hiking trip
C.Starting a food drive for the local community
D.Stocking up for a winter storm
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