stingy

This term carries a strong negative connotation, implying a lack of generosity that borders on selfishness or greed. While words like frugal or economical suggest a wise or disciplined approach to spending, stingy describes a restrictive mindset where the refusal to spend is seen as a character flaw or an unfair limitation.

When applied to quantities rather than people, the word shifts from a moral judgment to a description of insufficiency. It evokes a sense of disappointment or deprivation, as in a stingy serving of food or a stingy salary, suggesting that the amount provided is intentionally or unfairly low.