minimum: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1formal/neutral
Quick answer
What does “minimum” mean?
the smallest amount or number that is possible, allowed, or needed.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
the smallest amount or number that is possible, allowed, or needed.
The lowest, least, or smallest amount, degree, or point; a lower limit. In mathematics, the smallest value that a mathematical function can have over its entire curve.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning or usage. The plural 'minimums' is more common in AmE, while 'minima' (the Latin plural) is slightly more likely in formal/scientific BrE, though 'minimums' is standard in both.
Connotations
Neutral in both. Associated with requirements, standards, or limits.
Frequency
High frequency in both, with slightly higher technical/scientific use in BrE favouring 'minima'.
Grammar
How to Use “minimum” in a Sentence
a minimum of [NUMBER/NOUN] (e.g., a minimum of £50)at a minimumwith a minimum of [NOUN] (e.g., with a minimum of fuss)below/above the minimumset/fix/establish a minimumVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “minimum” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The minimum fare for the journey is two pounds fifty.
American English
- The minimum payment for this bill is $25.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Referring to order quantities, pricing thresholds, or staffing levels (e.g., 'Minimum order value is £100').
Academic
Used in statistics, mathematics, and sciences to denote the smallest value in a data set or function.
Everyday
Discussing requirements, costs, or effort (e.g., 'I try to do the minimum of housework on Sundays').
Technical
In computing (minimum system requirements), engineering (minimum load), or physics (minimum energy state).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “minimum”
- Using 'minimum' as an adverb (e.g., 'I work minimum' – incorrect; use 'minimally' or 'as little as possible').
- Confusing 'minimum' with 'minimal' (adjective vs. noun/adjective distinction).
- Misspelling as 'minumum' or 'minimmum'.
- Using the plural 'minimums' in hyper-formal scientific contexts where 'minima' is expected.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both 'minimums' and 'minima' are correct. 'Minimums' is more common in general use, while 'minima' is used in formal, scientific, or technical contexts.
'Minimum' is primarily a noun (the smallest amount) or an attributive adjective (minimum wage). 'Minimal' is an adjective meaning 'very small in amount or degree' and is often used predicatively (e.g., 'The damage was minimal').
No, 'minimum' is not a standard verb. The related verb is 'minimise' (BrE) / 'minimize' (AmE).
It depends on the noun that follows. If the noun is plural, the verb is plural: 'A minimum of ten students are required.' If the focus is on the quantity as a single amount, a singular verb is sometimes used but plural is safer and more common with countable nouns.
the smallest amount or number that is possible, allowed, or needed.
Minimum is usually formal/neutral in register.
Minimum: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɪn.ɪ.məm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɪn.ə.məm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “do the bare minimum”
- “keep something to an absolute minimum”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'mini-mum' – a very small 'mum' (mother) would be the minimum size for a mum.
Conceptual Metaphor
QUANTITY IS VERTICALITY (less is down, more is up) – the minimum is the lowest point.
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is 'minimum' used correctly as an adjective?