Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
sparsely population
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "sparsely population" is not correct.
Did you mean "sparsely populated"? If this is the case, you can use it to describe an area that has a low density of people living in it. Example: "The region is known for its vast landscapes and is sparsely populated, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
Formal & Business
Wiki
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Preliminary epidemiological studies carried out by community activists in the United States reported hydrocephalic births in a sparsely population rural are downwind of a DU-weapons testing sites [ 29].
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Tanzania is sparsely populated with average population density of 51 inhabitants per square kilometre (inh./sq. km) with interregional and urban rural significant variations (NBS and Office of Chief Stastitian Zanzibar 2013).
Science
Smaller number of households in NE province because of difficulties in travelling and interviewing in sparsely populated and largely nomadic population.
Science
This goes to show that grid technology makes more economic sense in areas of higher/dense population than in sparsely populated areas.
The grid system seems to be more viable for communities with high demand and population compared to sparsely populated areas which traditionally are off-grid compatible.
Even if not in a pristine state, we believe the current forest structure to be a result of a typical forest use in boreal Fennoscandia in large, sparsely populated areas, prior to population growth and the onset of industrial forest management.
Science
All of these settlements, in the western part of the Zagori region, are sparsely populated with a total population of 1,515 people.
Wiki
The jars were usually built in sparsely populated areas where the population is quite poor.
Formal & Business
Västerbotten County comprises 3% of the national population and is sparsely populated with about five inhabitants/square kilometre as compared with 24 for all Sweden.
Science
Population density of Bhutan.Bhutan is a relatively sparsely populated country, with a rate of population increase close to the world average in the early 21st century.
Encyclopedias
It is sparsely populated by humans; human populations increase toward the south and gradually decline farther from the coast.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing areas with low population density, use the correct phrase "sparsely populated" or its synonyms, ensuring grammatical accuracy and clarity.
Common error
Avoid using the noun "population" directly after the adjective "sparsely". The correct form is the past participle "populated", which acts as an adjective describing the area. A common mistake is to write or say “sparsely population” when the correct phrase is “sparsely populated”.
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "sparsely population" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "sparsely populated", where 'populated' functions as a past participle adjective modifying an area or region. This structure is used to describe areas with low population density. Ludwig AI confirms this grammatical issue.
Frequent in
Science
46%
News & Media
23%
Wiki
12%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
9%
Formal & Business
9%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The search query "sparsely population" is grammatically incorrect; the correct phrase is "sparsely populated". This phrase describes an area with a low density of inhabitants. Ludwig AI identifies this grammatical issue and suggests the correct form. Although examples of the incorrect phrase exist, it's essential to use the grammatically sound alternative. Common synonyms include "thinly populated" and "lightly populated". Using the correct phrase ensures clarity and credibility in your writing, regardless of whether it's for academic, professional, or general purposes. Ludwig provides various examples that demonstrate its correct usage across different contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedias. Therefore, remember to use "sparsely populated" when describing areas with low population density.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
thinly populated area
Replaces "sparsely" with "thinly" while retaining the core meaning of low population density.
low population density
Focuses on the core concept of population density being low, omitting the adverb.
lightly populated region
Uses "lightly" as a synonym for "sparsely", maintaining the meaning of few inhabitants.
underpopulated area
Emphasizes the lack of sufficient population in the area.
scarcely populated location
Substitutes "sparsely" with "scarcely" to convey a similar sense of minimal population.
area with few inhabitants
Directly describes the area's characteristic of having few residents.
region of low habitation
Employs a more formal tone, focusing on the lack of habitation.
area with minimal population
Highlights the small size of the population.
rural and depopulated area
Indicates that the area not only has a low population now, but has lost population in the recent past.
unpopulated territory
Suggests a complete or near-complete absence of population.
FAQs
What is the correct way to say "sparsely population"?
The correct phrase is "sparsely populated". The word "populated" is a past participle used as an adjective to describe an area with few residents.
What does "sparsely populated" mean?
It describes a region, area, or territory with a low density of inhabitants. Essentially, there are not many people living there relative to the size of the land.
Are there synonyms for "sparsely populated"?
Yes, you can use terms such as "thinly populated", "lightly populated", or "underpopulated" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.
How can I use the phrase "sparsely populated" in a sentence?
Example: "The northern territories are sparsely populated due to the harsh climate."
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested