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Minimal: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：very small (minimal)
minimal
/ˈmɪn.ə.məl/
adj.
Used to describe an amount or degree that is as small as possible.
very small
➕
/ˈver.i smɔːl/
adj.
Describes the smallest possible quantity, amount, or degree of something.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From the root 'minim-' (smallest) and the adjective suffix '-al'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'Minimum effort'. The smallest amount possible.
📖 Example
He passed the exam with minimal effort, only studying the night before.
He required only a very small amount of effort to pass the exam, studying just the night before.
🔗 Collocations
minimal effort – requires very little physical or mental work
minimal damage – only a very small amount of harm or destruction
minimal impact – has only a very slight effect or influence
🔄 Synonyms
negligible (adj.) – so small or unimportant as to be not worth considering
tiny (adj.) – extremely small in size or amount
slight (adj.) – small in degree; inconsiderable
🚫 Antonyms
maximum (adj.) – the greatest or highest possible amount
substantial (adj.) – of considerable size, amount, or importance
🌱 Derivatives
minimize (v.) – to reduce something to the smallest possible amount or degree
📖 Cultural Story
The word originates from the Latin 'minimus', meaning 'smallest' or 'least'. It entered English in the 17th century, and its association with modern design styles ('minimalism') became prominent in the 20th century, emphasizing simplicity and function over ornament.
Meaning 2：simple and clean (minimal)
minimal
/ˈmɪn.ə.məl/
adj.
Describing a style that uses the simplest and fewest elements, creating a clean and modern look.
simple and clean
➕
/ˈsɪm.pəl ənd kliːn/
adj.
Describes a design or style that uses the simplest and fewest elements to achieve a clean, modern aesthetic.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
She loves minimal home decor, with white walls and just a few pieces of furniture.
She enjoys a home decoration style that is simple and clean, featuring white walls and only a few items of furniture.
🔗 Collocations
minimal design – a style of design characterized by simplicity and the removal of unnecessary elements
minimal look – an overall appearance that is simple and uncluttered
🔄 Synonyms
simple (adj.) – plain and uncomplicated in form or design
uncluttered (adj.) – not having too many objects, decorations, or details; tidy and simple
🚫 Antonyms
ornate (adj.) – made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns
🌱 Derivatives
minimalism (n.) – a style or technique that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity
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