adj
Common
minimal
MIHN-ih-muhl
Minimal (adj) means As small as possible in amount or degree. Example: “You only need minimal equipment to start learning how to draw.”
adj
1
As small as possible in amount or degree.
"You only need minimal equipment to start learning how to draw."
"The damage from the storm was minimal."
"They renovated the kitchen with minimal disruption to the household."
2
Characterized by very simple, stripped-back style or design.
"The cafe has a minimal design, with white walls and just a few chairs."
"He chose a minimal logo with one simple line and a single colour."
"She prefers a minimal aesthetic in her apartment."
How to use minimal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs little as possible, or simple and stripped-down in style.
Common pairings
minimal effort
minimal impact
minimal design
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like minimal.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- minimals
- Comparative
- more minimal
- Superlative
- most minimal
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You only need _____ equipment to start learning how to draw.
Etymology
Built from "minimum" plus the adjective-forming suffix "-al."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for minimal
See all rhymes for minimal →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.'
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include minimal:
