mar
gi
nal
Comparative
more marginal
Superlative
most marginal
1
away from borders or edges with a little or no distance
- The marginal notes in the textbook helped explain the main concepts.
- The paper had marginal space left on the edges for notes and comments.
- The house was located in a marginal zone of the city, not far from the main roads.
- The marginal space in the corner of the room was used to store extra supplies.
- The restaurant was located in a marginal area of the city, away from the main attractions.
2
having limited significance or importance
- The impact of the proposed changes on productivity was marginal.
- Her role in the project was marginal, as she only provided occasional assistance.
- The improvement in performance was marginal despite the team's efforts.
- The difference in quality between the two products was marginal.
- The changes made to the design were marginal and did not significantly alter the product.
3
(of a land) having limited productivity, often only capable of producing enough to cover the costs of farming
- The crops on marginal land barely meet the expenses of cultivation.
- Farmers often struggle with marginal land that yields minimal profits.
- Due to its poor soil quality, the farm is located on marginal land.
- Marginal land can require extra effort to remain viable for farming.
- Many small-scale farmers are forced to use marginal land to survive.
Synonyms:
4
not part of the main group
- The project focuses on improving conditions for marginal communities.
- Marginal workers struggle to secure fair wages and benefits.
- The book examines how marginal cultures have been suppressed in mainstream society.
- Marginal communities need more support.
Synonyms:
5
below the expected standard
- His performance in the exam was marginal.
- The restaurant received marginal reviews from critics.
- They live in marginal conditions, with limited access to basic amenities.
- The team's performance was marginal, falling short of expectations.
6
having the capacity to be won or lost by only a few votes in an election
- The candidate focused heavily on securing marginal seats to win the election.
- The party invested significant resources in campaigning for marginal constituencies.
- In a close race, the outcome often depends on who can win the marginal districts.
- The government is worried about losing several key marginal seats in the upcoming election.