stingily

This adverb carries a strong negative connotation, suggesting not just a lack of spending, but a conscious, often begrudging refusal to be generous. It implies a psychological state of greed or a restrictive mindset that creates a sense of scarcity, even when resources are available.

While it primarily refers to financial frugality, it is frequently used to describe the withholding of non-material assets, such as information, praise, or affection. In these contexts, it describes a lack of emotional or intellectual openness, painting the subject as cold or overly guarded.