Minimally: meaning, definitions and examples

⚫️

Add to dictionary

minimally

[ˈmɪnɪməli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a minimal manner

In a way that is just enough for something to happen or be effective, without any extra or unnecessary elements. It refers to the least possible amount, quantity, or degree.

Synonyms

barely, modestly, scarcely, sparsely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
minimally	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.
barely	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.
scarcely	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.
sparsely	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.
modestly	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.

Examples of usage

He answered her questions minimally, providing only the essential information.
She decorated the room minimally, with just a few simple items.
The instructions were minimally detailed, leaving much room for interpretation.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

of or relating to a minimum or minimums

Relating to the smallest or least possible amount, quantity, or degree that is required or suitable. Refers to something that is basic, essential, or fundamental.

Synonyms

bare minimum, least, minimum, smallest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
minimally	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.
bare minimum	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.
least	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.
smallest	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.
minimum	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.

Examples of usage

The company adopted a minimally invasive approach to the surgery.
He made a minimally viable product to test the market demand.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin root 'minimus,' which means 'least' or 'smallest.'
It was formed by combining 'mini' with '-ally,' a suffix that turns adjectives into adverbs.

Art and Design

The minimalist movement in art and design emphasizes simplicity, focusing on clean lines and few colors.
Minimalism often aims to strip away the unnecessary, allowing the viewer to focus on the essence of the subject.

Psychology

In behavioral psychology, minimal intervention techniques can effectively promote change without overwhelming individuals.
The minimalist lifestyle advocates for reducing clutter, which can positively impact mental well-being by promoting calm and focus.

Technology

In software design, a minimal user interface aims to simplify user experience, making applications easy to use.
Minimalism in coding refers to the practice of writing code that accomplishes a task with the least complexity and resources.

Culture

Many cultures appreciate the 'less is more' philosophy, evident in traditional practices that focus on simplicity and functionality.
Minimalism has influenced various aspects of modern culture, including fashion, architecture, and lifestyle choices, promoting sustainability and intentionality.

Translations

Translations of the word "minimally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 minimamente

🇮🇳 न्यूनतम रूप से

🇩🇪 minimal

🇮🇩 minimal

🇺🇦 мінімально

🇵🇱 minimalnie

🇯🇵 最小限に (saishōgen ni)

🇫🇷 minimement

🇪🇸 mínimamente

🇹🇷 asgari düzeyde

🇰🇷 최소한으로 (choesohan-euro)

🇸🇦 بأقل قدر

🇨🇿 minimálně

🇸🇰 minimálne

🇨🇳 最小限地 (zuìxiǎo xiàn de)

🇸🇮 minimalno

🇮🇸 lágmarks

🇰🇿 минималды түрде

🇬🇪 მინიმალურად (minimalurad)

🇦🇿 minimal olaraq

🇲🇽 mínimamente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,864, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16861 ferocity
16862 fairies
16863 envoys
16864 minimally
16865 makeshift
16866 clippings
16867 caprice
...