Sparse Meaning in English
word
Definition
If something is sparse, there is only a small amount of it spread over a large area. It describes things that are thinly scattered, not dense, or not plentiful.
Usage & Nuances
'Sparse' is formal and usually describes things like hair, vegetation, population, or objects. Common collocations: 'sparse hair', 'sparse population', 'sparse vegetation'. It means the opposite of 'dense'. Do not confuse with 'scarce', which refers to availability, not distribution.
Example Sentences
The grass in the yard is sparse.
basic
Her sparse hair made her scalp easy to see.
basic
There are sparse trees in the desert.
basic
Attendance at the meeting was pretty sparse this week.
natural
The furniture in his new apartment is rather sparse, but he doesn't mind.
natural
Cell phone service is sparse out in the countryside.
natural