B2adverb2K

Barely

UK /["/ˈbeəli/"]/US /["/ˈberli/"]/

Definition

in a way that is just possible but only with difficulty

In simple words: hardly or only just

Examples

  • He could barely read and write.
  • The music was barely audible.
  • She was barely able to stand.
  • We barely had time to catch the train.
  • She barely acknowledged his presence.
  • There was barely any smell.
  • Barely 50% of the population voted.
  • He was barely 20 years old and already running his own company.
  • They arrived barely a minute later.
  • I had barely started speaking when he interrupted me.

Usage notes

Use 'barely' to indicate that something is just enough or hardly the case. It's neutral, appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

barely + verb

Memory hint

Remember 'barely' as 'bare+ly' - you are left with nothing but just a little!

Collocations

  • barely enough
  • barely noticeable
  • barely remember

Synonyms

  • hardly
  • scarcely
  • just
  • almost

Antonyms

  • abundantly
  • plentifully
  • easily

Common mistakes

  • 'Barely' is often confused with 'scarcely' which is more formal.
  • Learners may omit 'barely' and say just 'enough', losing the emphasis.
  • Using 'barely' with nouns instead of verbs (incorrect usage).