vähälkäistä

Vähälkäistä is a Finnish word that translates to "meager," "scant," "paltry," or "sparse." It describes a situation or quantity that is insufficient, lacking in abundance, or minimal. The word is often used to describe resources, provisions, or opportunities. For example, one might speak of vähälkäistä ruokaa (meager food), vähälkäistä palkkaa (a meager salary), or vähälkäistä apua (scant help).

The term carries a connotation of not being enough to satisfy a need or expectation. It implies a deficiency or a lack of something substantial. Context is key to understanding the precise nuance of vähälkäistä, but it consistently points towards a state of insufficiency. It can be applied to tangible things like food or money, as well as more abstract concepts like encouragement or support. The opposite of vähälkäistä would be something abundant, plentiful, or generous.