geringfügig
minor
Very small, insignificant, or negligible in extent, degree, or importance.
EXAMPLE
Der Preis wurde nur geringfügig erhöht.
The price was increased only slightly.
geringfügig
minor
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Meanings
geringfügig
marginally employed
Refers to a type of employment with very low income that is subject to special social-insurance regulations (Minijob).
EXAMPLE
Sie arbeitet nur geringfügig, um neben dem Studium etwas Geld zu verdienen.
She only works in marginal employment to earn some money alongside her studies.
Usage tips
Context clue
This meaning is very specific and is used almost only in a work context. It describes 'geringfügige Beschäftigung' (marginal employment), also called a 'Minijob', where you remain below a certain income limit.
EXAMPLE
Viele Studenten arbeiten nebenbei geringfügig.
Many students work part-time in marginal employment.
Use as an adverb
As an adverb, 'geringfügig' (slightly) modifies a verb and means 'a little' or 'slightly'. In this function, the word is not declined and often stands directly before the past participle or adjective it describes.
EXAMPLE
Die Pläne wurden nur geringfügig geändert.
The plans were changed only slightly.
Word structure
The word is based on the adjective 'gering' (small/low), which means 'klein' (small) or 'wenig' (little). Something that is 'geringfügig' (minor) therefore has only a small, insignificant effect or size.
EXAMPLE
Es gibt nur einen geringfügigen Unterschied zwischen den beiden Modellen.
There is only a minor difference between the two models.
Register and style
'Geringfügig' (minor/slight) belongs more to written language or a more formal style. In normal conversation, people would often simply say 'ein bisschen' (a little), 'etwas' (somewhat), or 'kaum' (hardly).
EXAMPLE
Der Schaden am Auto war zum Glück nur geringfügig.
Fortunately, the damage to the car was only minor.
Compare with
geringfügig vs leicht
light / easy
For damage, leicht indicates a low level of severity. Geringfügig places greater emphasis on the extent, significance, or consequences being very small and almost negligible. Leicht is suitable for a general degree of severity; geringfügig is better for damage that is barely significant.
geringfügig
Der Schaden am Wagen ist geringfügig und kaum sichtbar.
The damage to the car is minor and barely visible.
leicht
Der Wagen wurde bei dem kleinen Zusammenstoß leicht beschädigt.
The car was slightly damaged in the minor collision.
In real life
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