What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
marginal
Example
The company's profits were only marginal this quarter. [marginal: adjective]
Example
He had only a marginal role in the project. [marginal: adjective]
marinal
Example
The town's economy is heavily dependent on its marinal activities. [marinal: adjective]
Example
She loves to take long walks along the marinal boardwalk. [marinal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Marginal is more commonly used than marinal in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and uses. Marinal is more specialized and is typically used in the context of coastal areas or regions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between marginal and marinal?
Marginal is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while marinal is more specialized and is typically used in more formal or technical contexts related to marine or coastal studies.