Skip to main content

minimally — to the smallest possible degree or amount; barely

Part of speech: ADVERB

Definition: to the smallest possible degree or amount; barely

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈmɪnɪməli/

Example Sentences

  • My minimalist friend furnished his apartment so minimally that he only has one chair, one table, and no TV.
  • The surgeon performed a minimally invasive procedure, leaving only a tiny scar.
  • I studied so minimally for the test that I basically just stared at the cover of the textbook.

minimally

ADVERB

[/ˈmɪnɪməli/]

to the smallest possible degree or amount; barely

The surgeon operates minimally, making just one tiny incision instead of a large cut.
💡 Concept

The surgeon operates minimally, making just one tiny incision instead of a large cut.

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈmɪnɪməli/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈmɪnɪməli/

🌳Etymology

Rootminim
Suffix--al + -ly

Origin

Derived from Latin minimus (smallest), the superlative form of minor (smaller). The word originally denoted the smallest degree or extent, and evolved through Romance languages into Middle English and Modern English.

Breakdown

minim- (smallest, from Latin minimus) + -al (adjective-forming suffix, relating to) + -ly (adverb-forming suffix, in the manner of).

🎵Rhyme

finally
normally
personally

🔗Collocations

minimally invasive surgery
minimally affected
minimally acceptable
minimally trained
minimally processed food
minimally viable product

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“My minimalist friend furnished his apartment so minimally that he only has one chair, one table, and no TV.”

“The surgeon performed a minimally invasive procedure, leaving only a tiny scar.”

😄 Fun example

“I studied so minimally for the test that I basically just stared at the cover of the textbook.”

“The new medication has minimally reduced her symptoms, but she still needs more treatment.”

📚Related Words

Want to master 27,000+ words?

Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.