What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peripheral
Example
The company's peripheral business units were sold off to focus on core operations. [peripheral: adjective]
Example
I need to buy a new peripheral for my computer, like a printer or scanner. [peripheral: noun]
marginal
Example
The company's profits were only marginal this quarter. [marginal: adjective]
Example
The author's contribution to the field was considered marginal by some critics. [marginal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Peripheral is more common than marginal in everyday language, especially in the context of computer technology. Marginal is less common and tends to be used in more formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between peripheral and marginal?
Marginal is generally more formal than peripheral, as it is often used in academic or technical writing. Peripheral is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
