JUST BARELY Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "just barely" refers to a situation where something has narrowly or only just managed to happen or be achieved. It indicates that the outcome was extremely close, almost to the point of not happening or not being sufficient. It implies that the margin of success or accomplishment was extremely slim and only by a small margin did one manage to meet a requirement or expectation.
In a literal sense, "just barely" denotes an event or action by the smallest amount possible, usually so close that any lesser effort or circumstance would have resulted in failure or falling short. This phrase frequently applies to situations where one is precariously holding onto success or survival, almost teetering on the edge.
The term often implies a sense of relief from avoiding failure or disappointment, as if luck or a near-miraculous twist of fate contributed to the achievement. It suggests a close call or a narrow escape. For instance, someone who "just barely" passes an exam did not perform exceptionally well but rather scraped through with the minimum required marks.
Overall, "just barely" captures the essence of barely making it or achieving a goal by the smallest of margins, underscoring the notion of coming close to failure or deficiency but ultimately managing to succeed, albeit just barely.
Common Misspellings for JUST BARELY
- hust barely
- nust barely
- must barely
- kust barely
- iust barely
- uust barely
- jyst barely
- jhst barely
- jjst barely
- jist barely
- j8st barely
- j7st barely
- juat barely
- juzt barely
- juxt barely
- judt barely
- juet barely
- juwt barely
- jusr barely
- jusf barely
Etymology of JUST BARELY
The etymology of the phrase "just barely" can be understood by examining the individual words that make it up.
1. Just: This word originated from the Old French word "juste", which in turn traces back to the Latin word "iustus". Both "juste" and "iustus" carry the meaning of "fair" or "equitable".
2. Barely: This term is derived from the adjective "bare", which comes from the Old English word "bær". "Bær" means "naked" or "bare".
When combined, "just barely" implies an extremely narrow margin or a situation in which one narrowly meets or achieves something. The word "just" suggests fairness or justice, while "barely" emphasizes the close proximity or small degree of something.
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