Minimal: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the smallest possible amount or degree of something. Often used in design, art, and fashion to indicate simplicity and lack of excess.

• The room was decorated in a minimal style, with only a few pieces of furniture
• The project's requirements are minimal, so it should be easy to complete

Used to describe a style or approach that is very simple and does not have a lot of unnecessary features. Often used in design and art to denote elegant simplicity.

• Her wardrobe is very minimalistic, featuring only neutral colors and simple cuts
• The artist's minimalistic approach brings a sense of calm to his paintings

Used to describe something that is easy to understand, not complicated, or plain. It can be both positive (indicating ease and clarity) and negative (suggesting lack of sophistication).

• The instructions are simple, so you should have no trouble assembling the furniture
• His explanation was simple and easy to follow

Used when referring to the fundamental or essential aspects of something. Can sometimes have a negative connotation when implying something is unsophisticated or lacking innovation.

• Before you start cooking, you need to learn some basic techniques
• The phone has basic features, but it works well

Used when describing something that is barely enough or the least amount possible. Often used in technical or formal settings.

• The project was completed with minimal resources.
• There was minimal disruption during the renovation.

General term used to describe something of little size, amount, or degree. Can be used in a wide range of contexts, from everyday conversation to formal writing.

• He lives in a small apartment.
• There was a small crack in the window.

Describes something that is small in degree or amount but not significant. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• She has a slight chance of winning the competition.
• I felt a slight discomfort in my back.

Refers to something so small or unimportant that it can be disregarded. Often used in academic, legal, or scientific contexts.

• The difference in cost is negligible.
• The impact on the environment was found to be negligible.

Use when describing something that is the smallest amount or degree, often in design or effort.

• The room had a minimal design with just a bed and a desk.
• They made only minimal changes to the plan.

Describes the quality or condition of being easy to understand or do. Often used positively to emphasize clarity or elegance.

• The simplicity of the design made it popular among users.
• He appreciated the simplicity of rural life.

Refers to holding back, limiting, or controlling something. Can be used in physical, emotional, or behavioral contexts. Sometimes carries a slightly negative or restrictive connotation.

• She showed great restraint by not responding to the insult.
• Financial restraint is crucial during economic downturns.

Typically used in economics or lifestyle to describe strictness, restraint, or severe simplicity. Often has a somewhat negative or serious connotation.

• The government imposed austerity measures to reduce the national debt.
• She led a life of austerity, avoiding any form of luxury.