Slightly: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ข
slightly
[หslaษชtli ]
Definitions
modify
To a small degree; somewhat. Slightly is used to indicate a small amount or degree of something.
Synonyms
a bit, a little, marginally.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| slightly |
Used in formal contexts to indicate a small degree or amount.
|
| a little |
Informal and versatile, suitable for both spoken and written English, used to indicate a small degree or amount.
|
| a bit |
Commonly used in casual spoken English to indicate a small degree or amount.
|
| marginally |
Typically used in more technical or formal writing to indicate a very small degree of difference.
|
Examples of usage
- He was slightly taller than his brother.
- She felt slightly nervous before the interview.
- The coffee was slightly too hot to drink.
mild
Not to a high, great, or extreme degree; moderately. Slightly is used to describe something that is not very intense or extreme.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| slightly |
Use 'slightly' when there is a very small degree of difference or change.
|
| moderately |
Use 'moderately' when something is to a medium degree or extent, more than 'fairly' but less than 'very much'.
|
| mildly |
Use 'mildly' to describe something that is not intense or severe, often used with emotions or symptoms.
|
| fairly |
Use 'fairly' when something is somewhat true or to a reasonable degree, more than 'slightly' but less than 'very'.
|
Examples of usage
- The pain was only slightly discomforting.
- The film received slightly positive reviews.
- He had a slightly different opinion on the matter.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Middle English word 'slight' which means 'of little weight or significance'.
- It has roots in the Old Norse word 'slลgr', meaning 'slippery, nimble', indicating a small or subtle quality.
- The '-ly' suffix suggests a manner or degree, making 'slightly' a descriptor of how much something differs.
Usage in Language
- In English, 'slightly' is often used in polite conversation to downplay criticism, making it softer.
- It serves as an adverb, modifying adjectives and other adverbs, such as 'slightly better' or 'slightly more complex'.
- Common in academic writing, it helps convey nuances that may be crucial in arguments or descriptions.
Cultural References
- In fashion, 'slightly oversized' is a trend where clothes fit just a bit bigger for a comfortable look.
- The phrase 'slightly off' can denote deviation in taste, style, or even behavior, often used in critique.
- In music, 'slightly varied rhythms' can enhance a song's appeal, adding complexity without overwhelming harmony.
Psychology
- Small adjustments in behavior or thought, described as 'slightly' changing, can lead to significant impacts over time.
- Cognitive psychology studies suggest that perceptions of slight differences influence decision-making and preference formation.
- The concept of the 'slight edge' identifies that marginal changes can yield extraordinary results in personal growth.
Science
- 'Slightly' can describe minute changes in scientific measurements, emphasizing precision in fields like physics and chemistry.
- In environmental studies, 'slightly elevated' could refer to small changes in temperature or pollution levels that impact ecosystems.
- Slightly different genetic variations can lead to the adaptation of species, showing the importance of even minor changes in biology.
Translations
Translations of the word "slightly" in other languages:
๐ต๐น ligeiramente
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฅเฅเคกเคผเคพ (thoda)
๐ฉ๐ช leicht
๐ฎ๐ฉ sedikit
๐บ๐ฆ ััะพั ะธ
๐ต๐ฑ nieznacznie
๐ฏ๐ต ใใใใซ (wazukani)
๐ซ๐ท lรฉgรจrement
๐ช๐ธ ligeramente
๐น๐ท hafifรงe
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฝ๊ฐ (yakgan)
๐ธ๐ฆ ููููุงู (qaleelan)
๐จ๐ฟ trochu
๐ธ๐ฐ trochu
๐จ๐ณ ็จๅพฎ (shฤowฤi)
๐ธ๐ฎ rahlo
๐ฎ๐ธ lรญtillega
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะทะดะฐะฟ
๐ฌ๐ช แแชแแ แแ (mtsired)
๐ฆ๐ฟ bir qษdษr
๐ฒ๐ฝ ligeramente