adj Common

minimal

MIHN-ih-muhl

Minimal (adj) means As small as possible in amount or degree. Example: “The damage from the storm was minimal.”

adj

As small as possible in amount or degree.

"The damage from the storm was minimal."

"They renovated the kitchen with minimal disruption to the household."

Characterized by very simple, stripped-back style or design.

"She prefers a minimal aesthetic in her apartment."

How to Use Minimal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAs little as possible, or simple and stripped-down in style.

Common pairings

minimal effort minimal impact minimal design

Word Forms

more minimal comparative, minimals plural, most minimal superlative

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The damage from the storm was _____.

Etymology

Built from "minimum" plus the adjective-forming suffix "-al."

Synonyms

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negligible slight nominal token marginal tiny

Related Words

great little small important large respect significant huge

Rhymes for minimal

animal primal decimal optimal proximal

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “minimal” mean?

The word “minimal” means as small as possible in amount or degree. In plain terms, as little as possible, or simple and stripped-down in style.

How do you pronounce “minimal”?

“Minimal” is pronounced MIHN-ih-muhl (/ˈmɪn.ə.məl/ in IPA).

How do you use “minimal” in a sentence?

Here is “minimal” used in a sentence: “The damage from the storm was minimal.”

What part of speech is “minimal”?

“Minimal” is an adjective.

Is “minimal” a common word?

“Minimal” is a fairly common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “minimal” have?

“Minimal” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: as small as possible in amount or degree.

What is the difference between minimal and minimum?

Minimal is usually an adjective meaning as small as possible or very little, as in 'minimal effort,' while minimum is often a noun or adjective referring to the lowest amount allowed or possible, as in 'the minimum wage.' They overlap but are not always interchangeable.

What is the difference between minimal and minimalist?

Minimal describes something very small in amount or very simple, while minimalist refers to a style or design philosophy that favours simplicity and few elements. A minimalist room deliberately uses a minimal amount of furniture.

What is the difference between minimal and little?

Both indicate a small amount, but minimal is more formal and stresses the smallest possible degree, while little is more general and everyday. 'Minimal risk' sounds more precise and formal than 'little risk.'

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