# minimal

> English word · Adjective · IPA /ˈmɪn.ɪ.məl/ · frequency rank #5,983

## Definitions
1. The smallest possible amount, quantity, or degree.
2. The smallest possible amount, quantity, or degree.
3. Characterised by the use of simple form or structures.
4. Characterised by the repetition and gradual alteration of short phrases.

## Etymology
From minimum + -al.

## Easily confused with
- **minimum** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/minimal-vs-minimum)
- **minivan** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/minimal-vs-minivan)
- **minimally** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/minimal-vs-minimally)
- **menial** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/menial-vs-minimal)
- **mineral** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/mineral-vs-minimal)
- **maximal** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/maximal-vs-minimal)

## Common misspellings (10)
`imnimal`, `miinmal`, `miniaml`, `minimall`, `minimla`, `minimmal`, `minmial`, `minnimal`, `mminimal`, `mniimal`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/minimal