negligible - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
negligible Word Meanings
- so small or unimportant that it can be disregarded
- insignificant
- trivially small
negligible Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
negligible Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒɪbəl/
US
/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒɪbəl/
negligible Word Etymology
negligible: from 'neglect' (with 'ible' indicating capability), meaning 'capable of being neglected'. Imagine a grain of sand on a beach—so insignificant that you wouldn't notice it amid the vastness.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Negligible describes something so small or unimportant that it can be safely ignored in decision making. In everyday use, people reserve it for quantities, risks, or differences that barely affect outcomes. Note that negligible is stronger than merely small; it implies something close to zero or without meaningful impact, not just unnoticed. When comparing options, you might say the difference is negligible if it would not change the conclusion. Beware that context matters: in high-stakes fields a seemingly tiny amount can still matter, so consider thresholds and standards.
Usage Reminders
- Don't overuse negligible in everyday decisions.
- Compare to 'insignificant' and 'tiny' depending on emphasis.
- Use with data or thresholds to justify why it's negligible.
- Be careful in high-stakes contexts where small amounts matter.
- Remember it implies near zero impact, not just small.
Common Misconceptions
- Negligible means zero, which is not always true; it means near zero with little or no practical impact.
- All small differences are negligible; some subtractions still matter depending on thresholds.
- Context doesn’t affect whether something is negligible; it always does.
- It’s a synonym for insignificant in every scenario, which isn’t accurate.
- Negligible only applies to numbers, not qualitative factors.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, emphasize subtle nuance: negligible is stronger than tiny but not zero; context is key in high-stakes domains.
Learning Tips
- Note the near-zero implication rather than literal zero.
- Pair with numeric thresholds to justify when it applies.
- Differentiate from 'insignificant' by considering practical impact.
- Practice in both business and scientific contexts.
- Watch for domain-specific thresholds that change its use.
- Use in comparative statements to avoid overclaiming.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'negligible' mean?
A.Highly significant and impactful
B.Insignificant or unimportant
C.Moderately important
D.Completely overlooked
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'negligible' correctly?
A.His remarks were negligible and filled with enthusiasm.
B.I found the negligible amount of money on the street very exciting.
C.The earthquake caused negligible damage to the building.
D.The negligible wind made sailing impossible.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'negligible'?
A.Significant
B.Trivial
C.Important
D.Vital
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'negligible'?
A.Important
B.Insignificant
C.Minor
D.Irrelevant
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where something is negligible?
A.The noise from the construction was negligible and too loud to ignore.
B.The expense for the trip was considered negligible compared to the overall budget.
C.His effort in the project seemed negligible and highly appreciated.
D.The negligible issue was resolved quickly and efficiently.
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