Word
marginally
Phoneticsmarginal·ly
US/ˈmɑɹdʒənəɫi/
UK/mˈɑːdʒɪnəli/
Adverb of degree
Definition
adv. by a very small amount. You use this when something changes or is different, but the difference is not very big or important.
adv. to a very small degree or extent; slightly. Often used to qualify comparative adjectives or verbs of change.
Examples
“The new model is only marginally better than the old one.”
“Sales increased marginally this month, but the growth was not enough to meet the company's ambitious quarterly targets.”
“While the revised policy is marginally more inclusive than its predecessor, critics argue that it fails to address the systemic barriers that prevent true equity within the organization.”
Examples
simple
“The new model is only marginally better than the old one.”
contextual
“Sales increased marginally this month, but the growth was not enough to meet the company's ambitious quarterly targets.”
complex
“While the revised policy is marginally more inclusive than its predecessor, critics argue that it fails to address the systemic barriers that prevent true equity within the organization.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “marginally” in context.
Adjective
01. marginally higher
“Profits this quarter were marginally higher than last year, showing a slight but steady improvement.”
adv + adj
02. marginally significant
“The researchers found a marginally significant difference between the two groups, though more data is needed.”
adv + adj
Usage
Typically placed before the adjective or verb it modifies; frequently pairs with comparatives like 'better', 'faster', or 'more'.
Real-World Examples
“Total output was up by 12% to £3.6bn, while input costs increased marginally to £2.2bn.” “We were circling Heathrow in the air with the sun behind us when the sky became marginally less sunny.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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