sparse and scattered; loose and straggling
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesadjective
sparse and scattered; few and far between
Describes objects, people, or sounds that are spread out with large gaps between them, such as stars, hair, or applause. Also written as 稀稀落落.
There were only a few scattered morning stars in the sky.
The applause in the hall was scattered and sparse, and the atmosphere was not enthusiastic.
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As he got older, the hair on the top of his head became sparse and thin.
Only a few scattered stalks of crops were growing in the field; it looked like the harvest would not be good.
adjective
straggling; loose; slack (in formation or discipline)
Describes formations, groups, or discipline that is not tight or organized, often implying a lack of strictness or rigor.
The students stood scattered loosely on the playground, not forming proper lines.
The troops marched in a straggling manner, like a heap of loose sand.
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The discipline in this class is slack and needs to be tightened up.