marginally

Imagine you're marginally qualified for a job: you meet the basic requirements, but only just. "Marginally" means by a very small amount, or by a very narrow margin. It suggests that something is true, better, or possible, but only a little. A plan might be marginally better than doing nothing at all, meaning it helps, but not by much. A company might be marginally profitable, meaning it makes a small profit and is close to breaking even. The word often shows that something exists or happens only to a limited degree.

"Marginally" describes something that exists or is true only to a small extent, or by a narrow margin. It points to a situation where the difference between one result and another is very small. Think of it like balancing on the edge: you're marginally stable, meaning even a small push could make you fall.

The word comes from "margin," which refers to the border or edge of something. That idea helps explain why "marginally" often suggests something small, slight, or barely enough. You might hear it in situations where a tiny change matters. For example: "The company was marginally profitable this quarter," meaning it made only a little money. Or, "The new version is marginally faster," meaning the improvement is real, but small.

It's often used to qualify statements, softening a claim or pointing out a limit. Saying something is "marginally better" is not strong praise; it simply means there is a slight improvement. "Marginally" can also imply that something is barely acceptable or adequate. If you marginally pass an exam, you pass by the smallest safe distance.

So, when you encounter "marginally," think of something that is present, true, or better, but only just. It is a useful word for small differences, narrow wins, and limited degrees.