Which one is correct?
"minimal increase" or "a minimal increase"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"minimal increase" or "a minimal increase"?

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This phrase is used when referring to an increase in a general sense without specifying a particular increase.

Examples:

The company saw a minimal increase in sales last quarter.
There has been a minimal increase in the number of visitors to the museum.
The report showed a minimal increase in productivity.
We observed a minimal increase in temperature over the weekend.
The survey revealed a minimal increase in customer satisfaction.

Alternatives:

slight increase
small increase
modest increase
marginal increase
negligible increase

This phrase is used when referring to a specific, singular increase that is minimal in nature.

Examples:

The project budget only allowed for a minimal increase in funding.
She requested a minimal increase in her salary.
The doctor recommended a minimal increase in medication dosage.
The landlord agreed to a minimal increase in rent.
The teacher noticed a minimal increase in student performance.

Alternatives:

a slight increase
a small increase
a modest increase
a marginal increase
a negligible increase

Both "minimal increase" and "a minimal increase" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Minimal increase" is used when referring to an increase in a general sense, while "a minimal increase" is used when referring to a specific, singular increase.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024