C1adjective2K

Minimal

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'.