Literal meaning (referring to worn fabric):
* The old armchair's upholstery was threadbare and worn through in several places.
* The beggar's coat was threadbare and patched, a testament to his poverty.
Figurative meaning (referring to something worn out or lacking freshness):
* His jokes were threadbare and unfunny, having been repeated countless times.
* The company's arguments for its new product were threadbare and unconvincing.
* The museum's exhibits were threadbare, lacking any new or exciting pieces.
Metaphorical meaning (referring to a lack of resources or substance):
* The company's financial resources were threadbare, and they were forced to lay off employees.
* The government's promises were threadbare and empty, offering no real solutions to the problem.
* His alibi was threadbare, full of inconsistencies and easily disproven.