Minimum is fairly absolute and solid, and refers to the smallest number or amount possible. Minimum: the least or smallest amount or quantity possible, attainable, or required. Minimal is a little more flexible, where it refers to being the smallest amount or degree in non-absolute terms.
What is minimal and minimum?
Minimal means the smallest possible, or the least — as in, "She passed the test with minimal studying." Minimal can also mean simple, as in "The apartment had a minimal decor scheme: white walls, no art, a simple black couch."
How do you use minimal in a sentence?
the least possible.
- The work was carried out at minimal cost.
- There's only a minimal amount of risk involved.
- The cost to taxpayers would be minimal.
- The damage to the car was minimal.
- The storm did only minimal damage.
- The co-operation between the two is minimal.
- The likelihood of infection is minimal.
