# marginally

/ˈmɑɹdʒənəɫi/ (US) · /mˈɑːdʒɪnəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/marginally
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

by a very small amount. You use this when something changes or is different, but the difference is not very big or important.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the adjective or verb it modifies; frequently pairs with comparatives like 'better', 'faster', or 'more'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.