Meaning & Definition of word "Marginal"
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Marginal
/ˈmɑːr.dʒɪ.nəl/
noun:
- 1. A value or amount that is only slightly above or below a certain point.
- Example: The marginal cost of producing one more unit was higher than expected.
adjective:
- 1. Relating to or situated at the edge or margin of something; minor or insignificant.
- Example: The company reported marginal profits this quarter, indicating little growth.
- 2. Of secondary or minor importance; not critical.
- Example: The team made some marginal improvements to the project, but the overall impact was minimal.
- 3. Located at the periphery or on the borderline of an area; not central.
- Example: The park's marginal areas were less developed and provided a habitat for local wildlife.
Etymology
From Latin 'marginalis', meaning 'of the edge or border'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
marginal gains:
Small incremental improvements in performance.
marginal utility:
The additional satisfaction gained from consuming one more unit.
marginal propensity to consume:
The likelihood that an individual will spend additional income.
marginal cost:
The cost of producing one more unit of a good.
Related Words
margin:
The space or border around a page or an edge.
marginalization:
The process of pushing a group to the edge of society.
marginality:
The condition of being on the periphery or outside the mainstream.
Slang Meanings of marginal
Meaning: Used to describe something that is just okay, not great.
Example Sentence: The concert was marginal, nothing special.
Meaning: Referring to an uncertain or risky situation.
Example Sentence: Investing in that stock seems marginal right now.