homeopathic
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homeopathic
Relating to homeopathy; according to the principles of homeopathy, an alternative medical treatment method.
Er nimmt gegen seine Kopfschmerzen ein homöopathisches Mittel.
He takes a homeopathic remedy for his headaches.
The adjective 'homöopathisch' (homeopathic) belongs to the word family around 'die Homöopathie' (homeopathy, the doctrine) and 'der Homöopath' (the homeopath, the doctor who practices it).
Meine Ärztin ist auch ausgebildete Homöopathin.
My doctor is also a trained homeopath.
The literal meaning refers to medicine. You can recognize the figurative, colloquial meaning by the fact that it refers to non-medical topics such as money, changes, or quantities.
Er behandelt seine Allergie mit homöopathischen Globuli.
He treats his allergy with homeopathic globules.
In its literal meaning, the adjective is often combined with nouns such as 'Mittel' (remedy), 'Arzneimittel' (medicine), 'Behandlung' (treatment), or 'Globuli' (small pellets).
Gegen ihre Schlafstörungen versucht sie es mit einem homöopathischen Mittel.
For her sleep problems, she is trying a homeopathic remedy.
The figurative use in 'homöopathischen Dosen' (tiny/homeopathic doses) is colloquial and often meant ironically. It expresses criticism that something is happening in far too small amounts.
Die Regierung hat die Steuern nur in homöopathischen Dosen gesenkt.
The government lowered taxes only in tiny doses.
minimal
'minimal' and 'homöopathisch' can both describe a very small amount. 'minimal' is neutral and fits in many situations, for example with a small effort, a small difference, or a small amount. 'Homöopathisch' is used figuratively and colloquially here. It often sounds slightly ironic and means: the amount is so small that you barely notice it. In factual texts, 'minimal' is usually better. 'Homöopathisch' is more suitable in conversation when you want to emphasize or criticize the very small amount.
Die Gehaltserhöhung war leider nur homöopathisch.
Unfortunately, the pay raise was only tiny.
Für die Anmeldung ist nur ein minimaler Aufwand nötig.
Only a minimal amount of effort is needed for the registration.