Barely
Example: She barely finishes the task before time runs out
Definition
"Barely" is an adverb used to describe an action or condition that is achieved with great difficulty, only just, or almost not at all. For example, in the phrase 'She barely finishes the task before time runs out,' it means she completes it with minimal margin.
Etymology
The word "barely" comes from the Old English word 'bare,' meaning 'without addition' or 'only.' The suffix '-ly' was added to form an adverb, indicating the manner in which something happens. Did you know that "barely" originally suggested something done with the most minimal or scant amount possible?
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"Barely" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - (B1) - set 1", containing 115 commonly used words.
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