What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barely
Example
I could barely hear what she was saying over the loud music. [barely: adverb]
Example
He barely passed the exam with a score of 60%. [barely: adverb]
just
Example
I saw her just a few minutes ago. [just: adverb]
Example
It's just not fair that he gets all the credit. [just: adjective]
Example
I just finished my homework. [just: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Just is more commonly used than barely in everyday language. Just is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while barely is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between barely and just?
While barely is typically associated with a more formal tone, just is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
