mínimo
“mínimo” means “minimum” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
minimum
Also: smallest, least
📝 In Action
Solo necesitamos la cantidad mínima de agua para el café.
A1We only need the minimum amount of water for the coffee.
El daño fue mínimo, no te preocupes.
A2The damage was minimal (very small), don't worry.
Puso un esfuerzo mínimo en la tarea.
B1He put minimal effort into the assignment.
the minimum
Also: low point
📝 In Action
El mínimo para obtener la beca es 80 puntos.
B1The minimum (score) to get the scholarship is 80 points.
Llegamos al mínimo histórico de temperaturas.
B2We reached the historical low point for temperatures.
Como mínimo, tienes que llamar a tus padres.
B1At the very least, you have to call your parents. (Common phrase: 'como mínimo')
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mínimo
Question 1 of 2
¿Cuál es la traducción más adecuada para 'como mínimo'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin word *minimus*, which was the superlative form of *parvus* (small). This means that even in ancient Rome, *minimus* already meant 'the smallest' or 'the least possible.'
First recorded: Late Middle Ages
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'mínimo' always mean 'smallest'?
Yes, it always refers to the smallest degree, quantity, or size possible or acceptable. It is the opposite of 'máximo' (maximum).
How do I say 'minimally' or 'in a minimal way'?
You can use the adverb 'mínimamente' or the adjective 'mínimo' inside a phrase like 'con el mínimo esfuerzo' (with the minimum effort).