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Scarcely - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

scarcely

/ˈskɛrsli/ /ˈskɛəsli/

Definition:

Only just; almost not, indicating minimal amount or degree.

Synonyms:

barely, hardly, only just, almost not

Part of Speech:

adverb

Antonyms:

abundantly, plentifully, copiously

Common Collocations:

scarcely any, scarcely believe, scarcely noticeable, scarcely enough

Derivatives:

scarce, scarcity

Usage Tips:

Use "scarcely" to emphasize how little something happens or exists; often paired with "when" for past events.

Common Phrases:

scarcely a day goes by, scarcely able to believe, scarcely any time left

Etymology:

Derived from Middle English "scarce," from Old French "escars," meaning limited or insufficient.

Examples:

  • 1. She scarcely had time to eat breakfast before leaving.
  • 2. He could scarcely believe his eyes when he saw the surprise.
  • 3. There was scarcely any food left after the party.
  • 4. Scarcely had she sat down when the phone rang again.

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