adjectiveadverb

dürftig

meager · poor

The German word "dürftig" is an adjective meaning "meager", "scanty", or "insufficient". It is derived from the Old High German word "turftig," implying something that is lacking or inadequate.

Similar words in German:

  • "spärlich" (sparse)
  • "karg" (bare)
  • "mangelhaft" (deficient)

Differences:

  • "Spärlich" typically refers to something thinly spread out or insufficient in quantity.
  • "Karg" is often used to describe something that is bare or very limited in resources, often with a connotation of harshness.
  • "Mangelhaft" implies a deficiency or a lack of quality, often used in the context of performance or functionality.

"Dürftig" generally carries a broader sense of inadequacy, whether it's related to resources, quality, or provision.

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Examples

Die Ausstellung wirkt dürftig und unvollständig.adjective

The exhibition appears meager and incomplete.

Seine Arbeit war recht dürftig.adjective

His work was quite poor.

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