Cool MateMinimal
UK /["/ˈmɪnɪml/"]/US /["/ˈmɪnɪml/"]/
Definition
very small in size or amount; as small as possible
In simple words: The least amount or very small.
Examples
- The work was carried out at minimal cost.
- There's only a minimal amount of risk involved.
- The damage to the car was minimal.
Usage notes
Use 'minimal' to describe something that is very small in amount or degree. It often conveys simplicity or a lack of excess. It is appropriate in both everyday conversation and formal writing, but avoid it in casual slang contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'mini' for something small — 'minimal' is even smaller.
Collocations
- minimal effort
- minimal risk
- minimal impact
- minimal design
- minimal change
Synonyms
- slight
- small
- limited
- basic
- insignificant
Antonyms
- excessive
- abundant
- ample
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'minimal' with 'minimum', which refers to the least possible amount.
- Using 'minimal' in contexts that require a more intense or larger scale description.
- Misplacing it in a sentence, such as saying 'minimal amount of' instead of 'a minimal amount of'.