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Insignificantly vs. Scarcely

What's the Difference?

Insignificantly and scarcely are both adverbs that convey a sense of smallness or lack. However, there is a subtle difference in their meanings. Insignificantly suggests something is of little importance or significance, while scarcely implies that something is barely present or in short supply. Both words convey a sense of minimalism or scarcity, but insignificantly focuses more on the lack of importance, while scarcely emphasizes the lack of quantity or presence.

Comparison

AttributeInsignificantlyScarcely
DefinitionNot enough to be considered important or meaningfulOnly just; almost not
ExtentVery small or negligibleBarely or hardly
ImpactMinimal effect or influenceAlmost no effect or influence
QuantityVery few or almost noneOnly a small amount or barely any

Further Detail

Definition

When looking at the attributes of the words "insignificantly" and "scarcely," it is important to first understand their definitions. "Insignificantly" is an adverb that means to a small extent or degree; not enough to be worth considering. On the other hand, "scarcely" is also an adverb that means only just; almost not. Both words convey a sense of smallness or lack, but they do so in slightly different ways.

Usage

One key difference between "insignificantly" and "scarcely" lies in their usage. "Insignificantly" is often used to describe something that is of little importance or consequence. For example, one might say, "The difference in price was insignificant compared to the overall cost." On the other hand, "scarcely" is typically used to indicate that something is in short supply or barely present. For instance, one might say, "There was scarcely enough food to feed everyone at the party."

Intensity

Another important attribute to consider when comparing "insignificantly" and "scarcely" is their intensity. While both words convey a sense of smallness or lack, "scarcely" tends to imply a greater degree of scarcity or insufficiency. For example, if someone says, "I can scarcely believe my eyes," they are expressing a high level of disbelief. On the other hand, if someone says, "The impact of the new policy was insignificant," they are suggesting that the policy had little effect.

Context

Context plays a significant role in determining whether to use "insignificantly" or "scarcely" in a sentence. "Insignificantly" is often used in situations where the lack of importance or impact is being emphasized. For example, one might say, "The error in the report was insignificant in the grand scheme of things." On the other hand, "scarcely" is typically used when there is a sense of urgency or scarcity. For instance, one might say, "I had scarcely enough time to finish the project before the deadline."

Comparison

When comparing "insignificantly" and "scarcely," it is important to note that both words convey a sense of smallness or lack, but they do so in slightly different ways. "Insignificantly" is often used to describe something that is of little importance or consequence, while "scarcely" is typically used to indicate that something is in short supply or barely present. Additionally, "scarcely" tends to imply a greater degree of scarcity or insufficiency compared to "insignificantly." Context also plays a significant role in determining which word to use, with "insignificantly" emphasizing lack of importance and "scarcely" conveying a sense of urgency or scarcity.

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