French Conversation · Level 9
88 words
French word
minimal
Pronunciation
IPA/minimal/
Meaning
- adjectiveminimal
Example
Le risque est minimal.
The risk is minimal.
More examples
Un effort minimal suffit souvent.
A minimal effort is often enough.
Core concept
A quantity or intensity kept just above the threshold that still counts.
Common phrases
effort minimal
minimal effort
impact minimal
minimal impact
coût minimal
minimal cost
Similar words
faible: Low in strength, amount, or degree.
léger: Having little weight or impact and attracting little notice.
minime: Very small in size or degree.
négligeable: So small that it can safely be disregarded.
Definition in French
Qui indique un degré, une mesure ou une intensité placés au niveau le plus bas acceptable.
Word origin
Minimal is a learned formation based on Latin minimus, meaning "smallest," with the adjective-forming suffix -al.
Usage tips
- Unlike English, French minimal changes for gender and number: minimale, minimaux, and minimales.