Definitions
- Referring to a small difference or change that is barely noticeable. - Describing something that is almost insignificant or negligible. - Talking about a slight improvement or decline in a situation.
- Referring to a small amount or degree of something. - Describing something that is not significant or substantial. - Talking about a minor change or difference in a situation.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a small or minor amount or degree of something.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a slight change or difference in a situation.
- 3Both words are adverbs that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Marginally is often used to describe a small difference or change that is almost negligible, while slightly is used to describe a small amount or degree of something.
- 2Intensity: Marginally implies a smaller degree or amount than slightly.
- 3Connotation: Marginally can have a negative connotation, suggesting that the difference or change is not significant or meaningful, while slightly is more neutral and can be used in positive or negative contexts.
- 4Formality: Marginally is more formal than slightly and is often used in academic or technical writing.
- 5Frequency: Slightly is more commonly used than marginally in everyday language.
Remember this!
Marginally and slightly are synonyms that describe a small or minor amount or degree of something. However, marginally is often used to describe a small difference or change that is almost negligible, while slightly is used to describe a small amount or degree of something. Additionally, marginally is more formal and can have a negative connotation, while slightly is more versatile and commonly used in everyday language.