What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
minimal
Example
The artist used minimal colors in their painting. [minimal: adjective]
Example
The company has a minimal budget for advertising this year. [minimal: noun]
Example
I prefer a minimal design for my website. [minimal: adjective]
minimum
Example
The temperature should be kept at a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius. [minimum: noun]
Example
The company has set a minimum wage for its employees. [minimum: adjective]
Example
We need a minimum of five people to volunteer for the event. [minimum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Minimum is more commonly used than minimal in everyday language, especially in business, finance, and scientific contexts. Minimal is less common but can be used to describe simplicity, elegance, or efficiency.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between minimal and minimum?
Both minimal and minimum are formal words that are commonly used in professional or technical contexts. However, minimum is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while minimal is more commonly used in formal or artistic contexts.
