What is Paltry: Introduction

Imagine anticipating a grand reward only to receive mere pennies, or a long-awaited celebration ending up with a sparse turnout—these situations capture the essence of “paltry.” Describing something that is insultingly small or inadequate, “paltry” applies to both material and abstract things that fall far short of expectations. In today’s world of high aspirations and abundant resources, calling something “paltry” highlights how trivial or insufficient it is, often adding a touch of irony or disappointment.

Origin and History of the Word Paltry

The word “paltry” has its roots in the 16th-century German word “paltrig,” meaning “ragged” or “worthless,” with connotations of something lowly or trivial. English speakers adopted the word to describe things that were not only minimal in quantity but also of little value. Over time, “paltry” expanded to signify an insufficiency that is almost offensive, capturing feelings of frustration or disdain. Today, “paltry” is often used to critique inadequate offers, rewards, or efforts, highlighting both the quantity and the perceived lack of value.

Meaning and Definition of Paltry

Paltry (adjective):

1. Insignificant, meager, or trivial in amount; laughably small
2. Of little or no worth; contemptibly inadequate or insufficient
3. Lacking importance, value, or substance

How to Pronounce Paltry

PAWL-tree

How to Remember Paltry: Memory Tips

To remember “paltry,” think of a “pale tree” with barely any leaves—thin, weak, and unimpressive. Another way is to associate it with “pauper” or poverty, as “paltry” describes something that’s impoverished in quantity or value. Picture receiving a handful of crumbs instead of a meal to reinforce the sense of inadequacy that “paltry” conveys.

Paltry in a Sentence: Examples and Usage

1. Financial: The company offered a paltry bonus, disappointing employees who expected more.
2. Social: She was surprised to see the paltry number of guests at what was supposed to be a grand event.
3. Academic: The funding allocated to the research project was paltry compared to its needs.
4. Professional: He was insulted by the paltry salary offered for a role with significant responsibilities.
5. Political: Many criticized the government’s paltry response to the disaster, calling it insufficient.
6. Personal: After hours of hard work, receiving just a paltry thank-you felt disheartening.
7. Historical: The soldiers received paltry rations that barely kept them nourished through the harsh winter.

Difficulty Level of Using Paltry

Intermediate:

• Useful for both formal and informal critiques
• Conveys a combination of small quantity and low value
• Clear meaning aids in easy application

Paltry Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Words

Modern Usage of Paltry in Contemporary Context

In modern language, “paltry” is commonly used to express dissatisfaction with small, insufficient offerings. In business, an employee might describe a below-average salary as “paltry,” particularly when it’s far below industry standards. In journalism, “paltry” is often used to highlight underwhelming efforts in response to major issues, such as a minimal government aid package in a crisis.

The word appears in personal contexts as well, where “paltry” might describe a friend’s inadequate effort in planning an important event or a subpar service experience. “Paltry” also appears in discussions about resource allocation, especially when minimal funding is allotted to causes or projects with high expectations. The term’s adaptability makes it ideal for highlighting not only the small quantity of something but also the way it falls short of what was expected or needed.