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February 18, 2026

paltry

/ˈpɑltɹi/adjective

So small or worthless as to be almost meaningless.

Example sentences

  • “He offered a paltry apology and walked away.”
  • “The job pays a paltry wage for such long hours.”

Nearly always sits before sums and amounts: a paltry fee, a paltry turnout.

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