Slightly: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal contexts to indicate a small degree or amount.

• The temperature has slightly increased
• She is slightly taller than her sister

Informal and versatile, suitable for both spoken and written English, used to indicate a small degree or amount.

• I'm feeling a little sleepy
• Let's wait a little longer

Commonly used in casual spoken English to indicate a small degree or amount.

• I'm a bit tired after the long trip
• Could you move the chair a bit?

Typically used in more technical or formal writing to indicate a very small degree of difference.

• The new design is only marginally better
• Sales have increased marginally this quarter

Use 'slightly' when there is a very small degree of difference or change.

• The weather is slightly warmer today.
• She was slightly taller than her brother.

Use 'moderately' when something is to a medium degree or extent, more than 'fairly' but less than 'very much'.

• The food was moderately spicy.
• He was moderately successful in his career.

Use 'mildly' to describe something that is not intense or severe, often used with emotions or symptoms.

• She was mildly surprised by the news.
• He was feeling mildly unwell.

Use 'fairly' when something is somewhat true or to a reasonable degree, more than 'slightly' but less than 'very'.

• He did fairly well on the test.
• The room was fairly small, but comfortable.