Meaning & Definition of word "Marginal"

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.