Barely

usgb/ˈberli/
adverb

Only just, by a very small margin.

He barely made it on time for the concert
Visual representation of "barely" - Only just, by a very small margin

Often appears as...

  • barely visible
  • barely audible
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "barely"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subtle Difference

Use 'barely' to emphasize how narrowly something was achieved or missed.

Illustration for Subtle Difference
She barely passed the exam, with a score of 51 out of 100.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Time Sensitivity

'Barely' often conveys a sense of relief or urgency related to time.

Illustration for Time Sensitivity
I barely caught the train before it left the station.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Weight

Using 'barely' can add a dramatic effect to a sentence, highlighting difficulty or tension.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
He could barely breathe as he reached the mountain peak.
Visual representation of the word "Barely"

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