be of scant value

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be of scant value" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has little worth or significance. Example: "The findings of the study were interesting but ultimately proved to be of scant value in addressing the main issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

While a new tax is likely, it might be of scant value if mineral prices plunge.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Further education funding prioritises lower-level skills and qualifications, which is of scant value to the over-25s.

The Guardian

The focus of the Dalai Lama's visit is his message, Dhonden said, because Tibetan tradition places scant value on birthday celebrations.

Los Angeles Times

There might be merchandizing value in the dresses, but scant design value.

The New York Times

As to why the serious question of worker well-being has been given scant attention by executives, regulators, and pundits, Pfeffer suggests it may have something to do with current mercenary cultural values.

Stanford University

I am not scant of time.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

However, there are scant data about the predictive value of these biomarkers in combination.

Critical Care

For individual NSAIDs, data on the effect of dose and duration of use are still scant.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

There is scant evidence of that sense of unity now.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is however scant empirical evidence of how various stakeholders symbiotically interact and create value in developing countries where large multinationals have limited access and engagement.

Technological Forecasting and Social Change

This he is showing scant sign of doing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be of scant value", ensure the context clearly establishes what the subject's value is being measured against. This provides clarity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "be of scant value" when the subject actually possesses significant negative value or causes harm. "Scant value" implies a lack of positive worth, not active detriment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be of scant value" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun by describing its lack of worth or significance. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be of scant value" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, indicating something has little worth or significance. While relatively rare in overall usage, it finds its place in formal contexts like news, science, and academia. The key to using it effectively lies in clearly establishing the context in which the value is being measured. Remember that "scant value" suggests a limited positive worth, not a negative impact. Alternatives such as ""be of little worth"" or ""have minimal significance"" can provide similar meaning with slight variations in formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be of little worth

This alternative uses simpler language to convey a similar meaning of having minimal value.

have minimal significance

This phrase focuses on the lack of importance or consequence, rather than monetary value.

prove to be insignificant

This alternative suggests that something initially thought to be important turned out to be unimportant.

amount to very little

This phrase indicates that something has a small impact or effect.

not be worth much

This is a more direct and informal way of saying something has little value.

hold little importance

This alternative emphasizes the lack of relevance or significance.

carry limited weight

This phrase implies that something has little influence or persuasiveness.

lack substantial merit

This suggests something doesn't have significant positive qualities or worth.

be practically useless

This alternative emphasizes the lack of practical application or benefit.

have negligible impact

This phrase indicates that something has almost no effect or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "be of scant value" in a sentence?

You can use "be of scant value" to describe something that has very little worth or importance in a particular context. For example: "The information proved to "be of scant value" during the decision-making process."

What are some alternatives to "be of scant value"?

Alternatives include "be of little worth", "have minimal significance", or "prove to be insignificant", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "be of scant value" or "be of little value"?

"Be of scant value" is slightly more formal and less common than "be of little value". The choice depends on the tone and audience of your writing.

What's the difference between "be of scant value" and "be worthless"?

"Be of scant value" implies a small amount of value, whereas "be worthless" suggests no value at all. "Be of scant value" is a weaker statement.