Paltry

mediumNegative tone

PAWL-tree

adjective

Definition

Small or meager; of little value or importance

Memory hook

PALTRY: Sounds like POULTRY scraps -- tiny, worthless leftovers nobody wants.

See more GRE words with mnemonics.

Examples

“They offered him a paltry sum for his valuable antique.”

“Her paltry excuse didn't convince anyone.”

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

“They offered him a ______ sum for his valuable antique.”

Show answer

paltry

Synonyms

meager trivialinsignificantnegligible

Antonyms

substantialconsiderablesignificantgenerous

GRE Tip

Paltry is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "meager" or "trivial" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "substantial".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

Related GRE Words

inconsequential

of little importance; trivial

scant

Barely sufficient or adequate

sparse

Thinly dispersed or scattered; not dense

trivial

Of little value or importance

frivolous

Lacking seriousness or importance; trivial or unworthy of consideration

insufficient

Not enough; inadequate

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