What is a synonym for lacking in amount or quality?

The term "meager" is synonymous with lacking in amount or quality. It implies insufficient quantity or scanty resources, suggesting a deficiency that can apply to physical items, resources, or even abstract concepts like effort or quality. For instance, if a meal is described as meager, it indicates that the portions are small or unsatisfactory. This term is often used to reflect inadequacy, whether in material possessions, financial situations, or even emotional expression.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts and do not convey the idea of scarcity or deficiency. "Meticulous" refers to being very careful and precise, "parochial" relates to being narrow in scope or limited to a specific area, and "stoic" describes a person who endures pain or hardship without showing feelings or complaining. These terms do not pertain to the notion of lacking in amount or quality, making "meager" the most appropriate choice.