Definition

In a way that is not dense or crowded, with things spread out or few in number.

Example

The trees were planted sparsely across the field, allowing plenty of sunlight to reach the ground.

Conversation

I noticed the trees in that park are planted quite sparsely.

Yeah, it makes the place feel more open, doesn't it?

Definitely! I prefer when parks aren't too crowded or sparsely filled with trees.

Same here; it’s nice to have some space to breathe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sparsely → It is formed from "sparse" (from Latin "sparsus", meaning scattered) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "sparsely" means in a manner that is scattered or thinly distributed.

Memory Tip

Think of things that are 'scattered' ('sparse') and how they are arranged 'in a manner of' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'sparsely' describes something that is thinly spread out.

Visually Confused Words