Definitions and Examples of slightly, barely, hardly
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To a small degree; not significantly.
Example
She was slightly nervous before her presentation, but she managed to deliver it well.
Only just; almost not.
Example
He barely made it to the train station on time and had to run to catch his train.
Almost not; rarely.
Example
She hardly ever goes to the gym, so it was surprising to see her there today.
Key Differences: slightly vs barely vs hardly
- 1Slightly suggests a small degree or amount, but still noticeable.
- 2Barely suggests an almost non-existent degree or amount.
- 3Hardly suggests a rare occurrence or situation.
Effective Usage of slightly, barely, hardly
- 1Enhance Communication: Use slightly, barely, and hardly to express small or insignificant amounts or degrees effectively.
- 2Show Precision: Incorporate antonyms in conversations to demonstrate precision in language use.
- 3Enrich Writing: Utilize these antonyms in writing to create nuanced descriptions and vivid imagery.
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Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Slightly suggests a small degree, barely suggests an almost non-existent degree, and hardly suggests a rare occurrence. Use these words to enhance communication, show precision in language use, and enrich writing by creating nuanced descriptions and vivid imagery.
