What does measlier mean?
Measlier is the comparative form of the informal adjective measly. To call something measly is to say that it is meager, trifling, or so inadequate as to invite contempt; calling it measlier makes the comparison explicit. The word is especially common when describing amounts, resources, results, excuses, efforts, or other things regarded as pathetically insufficient. Because it carries a dismissive tone, it is more natural in speech and informal writing than in formal reports, though its force can be deliberate in satire, criticism, and dialogue. Measlier can intensify a literal complaint about quantity, as when a promised contribution turns out to be smaller than expected, or an evaluative judgment, as when one explanation is weaker and more inadequate than another. It also has a mildly comic quality, often used when exaggerating disappointment. Despite its bluntness, measlier is precise and vivid: it does not merely indicate that something is small, but that the smallness is unworthy, disappointing, or contemptible.
adjective (comparative)More meager or paltry in amount, quality, or value; more contemptibly inadequate.
- More meager or insufficient in quantity.
- More paltry, inadequate, or contemptible in quality or value.
"The council offered an even measlier contribution than the developers had promised."
"The charity received a measlier donation than it had hoped for."
"His second excuse for missing the deadline was measlier than the first."
Calling something measly is sharper than merely saying it is small: it brands the shortfall as contemptible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of measlier
Measly is an English formation associated with the older vocabulary of measure and small quantity. Its established sense developed from describing something small or scant in amount to the broader, disparaging idea of something meager, inadequate, or unworthy. The comparative measlier was formed by adding the regular comparative suffix -er to the adjective.
How measlier is actually used
Informal and usually disparaging. It is especially common when describing amounts, results, offers, efforts, or excuses that seem pathetically insufficient. It can also be used humorously to exaggerate disappointment.
Easily confused with measlier
Measlier is a comparative adjective meaning meager or inadequate, whereas measles names an infectious disease.