Slightly
ˈslaɪt.li
Definitions
To a small degree or extent; a little.
ˈslaɪt.li
To a small degree or extent; not greatly; a little.
The price has increased slightly.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're eating ice cream, and you only want a *slightly* bigger scoop. It's not a huge change, just a little more.
👶 For kids: Just a little bit! Like, if you're a *little* bit hungry.
More Examples
She was only slightly injured in the accident.
He seemed slightly annoyed by the interruption.
The food was slightly undercooked.
How It's Used
"The temperature is only slightly above freezing."
"The results showed a slightly statistically significant difference."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle English *slightliche*, equivalent to "slight" + "-ly". "Slight" comes from Old English *sliht* meaning "smooth, even, slight", with a sense of smallness or lack of weight.
Used similarly in historical texts, indicating a small amount or degree.
Memory tip
Think of "a light touch." It's a small change or amount, not a big one.
Word Origin
"smooth, even, slight"