Word
marginal
Meanings
small in amount or effect; slight and not significant
not central or important; on the edge of attention or influence
relating to a margin or edge of a page or area
Definition
Marginal means small, slight, or not very important in effect or importance.
Marginal describes something that is only slightly above a limit or that makes a very small difference. It can also mean not central to a topic, group, or activity. In academic and business contexts, it often contrasts with what is significant or substantial.
Examples
- The redesign brought only marginal improvements in load time, so the team prioritized deeper changes.
- I noticed a marginal difference in flavor after reducing the salt, but the dish still tasted balanced.
- She argued that the new evidence was marginal to the main question and should not derail the discussion.
- They accepted the proposal despite its marginal benefits because it aligned with their long-term strategy.
Common mistake
Learners often use marginal to mean “average,” but it usually means “small/slight” or “not central.”
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.