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Alternative Lifestyles and Poverty

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Suffix -ance

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Definition of pittance

A small or inadequate amount of money or resources, often considered to be insufficient or barely enough to meet basic needs.
"The company offered a pittance for the employee's severance package."

Detailed Meaning of Pittance

The term is often used to describe pay or wages that are considered to be insufficient or unjustly low. It can also be used to describe other resources, such as food or housing, that are considered to be inadequate or barely sufficient. In general, the term implies that the amount of money or resources provided is not enough to meet the needs of the person or group receiving it. In some cases, it can also imply that the amount is unfair or not commensurate with the work or effort required. Pittance can also be used in a figurative sense to describe something that is not sufficient or adequate, such as a small amount of praise or recognition.

Example Sentences for Pittance

1. After years of hard work, he received a mere pittance for his efforts.
2. The workers were struggling to survive on the pittance they earned.
3. The artist sold her masterpiece for a pittance, not realizing its true value.
4. Many talented writers are paid a pittance for their articles.
5. The company's CEO earned a fortune while the employees received a pittance.
6. The scholarship provided a small pittance to cover educational expenses.

Origin and Etymology of Pittance

The noun 'pittance' finds its etymological roots in the Old French word 'pité,' which means 'pity' or 'mercy.' 'Pittance' is used to describe a small or inadequate amount of money or resources, often considered to be insufficient or barely enough to meet basic needs. Historically, it was associated with a charitable offering or allowance given to those in need out of compassion or mercy. The term embodies the notion of scarcity and insufficiency, emphasizing the meager nature of the resources provided. 'Pittance' serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals or communities living with limited means, highlighting the importance of addressing issues of poverty and inequality in society.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun pittance:

fortune

trifle

wealth

abundance

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Pittance

1. He gave a pittance to the homeless man, hoping it would help in some way.
2. The pittance she earned from her part-time job barely covered her bills.
3. Despite their dedication, the farmers received a pittance for their crops.
4. The inheritance turned out to be a mere pittance compared to their expectations.
5. The workers went on strike, demanding fair wages instead of a pittance.
6. She donated a pittance to the charity, wishing she could give more.
7. The athletes received only a pittance of the profits generated by their performances.
8. The novel highlighted the struggles of workers living on a pittance.
9. Many artists struggle to make a living and are paid a pittance for their creations.
10. The company offered a pittance as a retirement package to its long-serving employees.
11. The musician played for a pittance on the streets, hoping to earn some money.
12. The pittance he earned from odd jobs barely sustained his basic needs.
13. The organization aimed to provide aid to those living on a pittance.
14. The laborers were exploited and paid a pittance for their backbreaking work.