scant commentary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scant commentary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is very little commentary or discussion on a particular topic. Example: "The article provided scant commentary on the implications of the new policy, leaving readers wanting more analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The news drew scant commentary here.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

By the way, I don't run The Times, but I don't think you can call the paper's coverage — or its commentary — scant.

The New York Times

And one of his scant pieces of public commentary about macroeconomic development directly criticizes the World Bank's approach.

The New York Times

This commentary will examine an issue that has received scant attention in the past, i.e., what is the actual evidence upon which the current glucose criteria for diagnosing diabetes mellitus is based?

Diabetes Care

All the commentary surrounding the Iraq invasion 10 years on encourages retrospection but I think most veterans, like me, would agree that talk of anniversaries makes scant difference.

The Guardian

Scant consolation.

The Guardian - Sport

It drew scant attention.

The New York Times

Winds are scant.

The Economist

Services are scant.

The New York Times

Specifics were scant.

The New York Times

The plotting is scant.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scant commentary" when you want to emphasize that there is surprisingly little discussion or analysis on a particular topic, especially when more would be expected or beneficial.

Common error

Avoid using "scant commentary" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise and nuanced language may be preferred. Consider using alternatives like "limited analysis" or "minimal discussion" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scant commentary" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "scant" modifies the noun "commentary". It indicates a lack or insufficiency of commentary on a particular subject. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in news and media contexts, confirming its descriptive function.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scant commentary" is a phrase used to describe a situation where there is very little commentary or discussion on a particular topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While its frequency is rare, it's found primarily in news and media contexts. To enhance clarity in formal writing, consider alternatives like "limited analysis" or "minimal discussion". When using "scant commentary", ensure it accurately reflects a surprising or notable lack of commentary, avoiding overuse in highly formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited discussion

Focuses on the restriction of the discussion itself.

minimal analysis

Highlights the lack of in-depth examination.

little explanation

Emphasizes the absence of detailed clarification.

brief remarks

Indicates that comments were short and concise.

cursory observations

Suggests a superficial level of noting details.

sparse discourse

Emphasizes the rarity and thinness of the conversation.

shallow interpretation

Points out the lack of depth in understanding.

meager remarks

Stresses the insufficiency of the provided comments.

superficial analysis

Suggests the analysis lacked depth and thoroughness.

token acknowledgement

Highlights that the recognition was merely symbolic or perfunctory.

FAQs

How can I use "scant commentary" in a sentence?

You can use "scant commentary" to describe situations where there's surprisingly little discussion or analysis. For instance, "The report received "scant commentary" from the media, despite its important findings."

What's a good alternative to "scant commentary"?

Alternatives include "limited discussion", "minimal analysis", or "little explanation". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "scant commentary" formal or informal?

While grammatically correct, "scant commentary" leans towards a neutral tone. In more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "limited analysis" or "cursory review" for enhanced precision.

What does "scant" really mean in "scant commentary"?

"Scant" means barely sufficient or minimal. So, "scant commentary" indicates that the commentary provided was minimal or insufficient, suggesting a lack of thoroughness or detail.