minimal

C1
US /ˈmɪn.ə.məl/ UK /ˈmɪn.ɪ.məl/
adj noun Freq #12637

Meanings

  1. 1
    adj

    the least possible

    We only needed to enforce minimal standards.

  2. 2
    adj

    The smallest possible amount, quantity, or degree.

    With minimal effort, you won't be able to achieve all your dreams.

  3. 3
    noun

    Something very small; a tiny part or fragment.

    […] we seek in explaining mental phenomena and behavior always the "minimals," the little fragments of association, on which the mind is (passively) supposed to be based.

  4. 4
    adj

    Characterised by the use of simple form or structures.

  5. 5
    adj

    Characterised by the repetition and gradual alteration of short phrases.

Etymology

From minimum + -al.

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Thesaurus

Synonyms
1 adj · the least possible minimum
2 adj · the smallest possible... minimum
Word family
Derived forms minimalisationminimalismminimalistminimalityminimalizationminimalizeminimallyminimalnessnon-minimalnonminimalpostminimalquasiminimal

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