Synonyms for

Marginal

Verb / ˈmɑ:rdʒʌnʌl / Another word for marginal — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to or situated at the edge or margin of something

Synonyms & similar words

bare borderline fringy peripheral borderline fringe limited minor secondary subordinate adjacent neighboring outer outside overlooked unimportant neglected insignificant inconsequential trivial petty paltry

Synonyms by register

Formal

peripheral incidental secondary minor

Informal

edge side outlying barely

Literary

fringe borderline vestigial

Antonyms

central essential important key major principal significant

Common collocations

  • marginal note
  • marginal cost
  • marginal utility
  • marginal product
  • marginal increase
  • marginal benefit
  • marginal revenue

Word family

noun margin
adjective marginal
adverb marginally

Usage note

Often used in economics to refer to a small, incremental change. Can also mean at the edge or border of something, or barely sufficient.

Example sentences

  1. The book's margins were filled with marginal notes.
  2. The company's profit margin was marginal at best.
  3. The plant grew in the marginal soil near the river.
  4. The team only won by a marginal amount.
  5. The teacher gave the student a marginal grade for their paper.

Quotes

  • The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.
  • Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.
  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

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