MARGINAL


Meaning of MARGINAL in English

transcription, транскрипция: [ mɑ:(r)dʒɪn(ə)l ]

( marginals)

1.

If you describe something as marginal , you mean that it is small or not very important.

This is a marginal improvement on October...

The role of the opposition party proved marginal.

ADJ

2.

If you describe people as marginal , you mean that they are not involved in the main events or developments in society because they are poor or have no power.

The tribunals were established for the well-integrated members of society and not for marginal individuals...

≠ mainstream

ADJ

3.

In political elections, a marginal seat or constituency is one which is usually won or lost by only a few votes, and is therefore of great interest to politicians and journalists. ( BRIT )

...the views of voters in five marginal seats.

ADJ : usu ADJ n

A marginal is a marginal seat. ( BRIT )

The votes in the marginals are those that really count...

N-COUNT

4.

Marginal activities, costs, or taxes are not the main part of a business or an economic system, but often make the difference between its success or failure, and are therefore important to control. ( BUSINESS )

The analysts applaud the cuts in marginal businesses, but insist the company must make deeper sacrifices...

ADJ : usu ADJ n

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