(~s)
1.
If you describe something as ~, you mean that it is small or not very important.
This is a ~ improvement on October...
The role of the opposition party proved ~.
ADJ
2.
If you describe people as ~, 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 ~ individuals...
? mainstream
ADJ
3.
In political elections, a ~ 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 ~ seats.
ADJ: usu ADJ n
•
A ~ is a ~ seat. (BRIT)
The votes in the ~s 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 ~ businesses, but insist the company must make deeper sacrifices...
ADJ: usu ADJ n