Another Word For Barely

Meaning

The word "barely" is an adverb used to indicate that something is only just the case or is true to a very small extent. When you say something happens "barely," it means it almost didn't happen or was very close to not happening at all. It emphasizes the minimal amount or degree of something.

Synonyms

• Hardly
• Scarcely
• Just
• Only just
• Almost not

Antonyms

• Easily
• Abundantly
• Frequently
• Clearly
• Significantly

Etymology

The word "barely" comes from the word "bare" which means exposed or uncovered, combined with the suffix "-ly" which is used to form adverbs. It originated in the late Middle English around the 14th century, originally meaning "in a bare manner."

Examples

1. She barely passed the exam, only scoring the minimum required.
2. There were barely enough cookies for everyone at the party.
3. He barely had time to finish his project before the deadline.
4. The temperature was barely above freezing in the morning.
5. They barely managed to catch the last train home.