Minimally: meaning, definitions and examples

When describing something that is done to the least possible extent or amount.

• The new software minimally improved productivity.
• He exercises minimally, just enough to stay healthy.

Used when something happens by a very small margin, almost not happening at all.

• She barely passed the exam.
• We barely made it to the bus on time.

When something is very hard to find or happens very rarely, often close to the point of not existing.

• Scarcely a day goes by without rain in this season.
• He had scarcely any food left after the long journey.

Used to describe something that is distributed thinly across an area, lacking in intensity or density.

• The area is sparsely populated.
• The decorations were sparsely placed around the event hall.

When describing something done to a moderate extent, without extremes, often with humility.

• She modestly accepted the praise for her work.
• The company has been growing modestly over the past few years.

Used when talking about doing something to the smallest possible degree.

• She dressed minimally for the party, just a simple dress and no accessories.
• They minimally complied with the rules.

Refers to the absolute smallest amount needed to achieve something, often implying just enough to get by.

• He did the bare minimum to pass the test.
• The staff were working with the bare minimum of resources.

Used to compare multiple options or amounts, indicating a smaller quantity or degree.

• He was the least experienced member of the team.
• This is the least expensive option available.

Used to describe the least amount or size in a physical sense, can also refer to things like effort or degree.

• He found the smallest piece of cake and took it.
• She made the smallest effort in the team project.

Refers to the smallest limit or amount permissible or possible.

• They set a minimum age requirement for the competition.
• The minimum amount of income to qualify for the loan is $50,000.