🇬🇧🇨🇳 barely - 仅仅 : English Lesson

Meaning of "barely" ("仅仅"), detailed definition, and a short video lesson below.

“Barely” means something almost did not happen. It did happen, but only by a tiny bit, just enough, like squeezing through a door that is almost closed or finishing your homework right before the bell rings.

Watch and listen to this English flashcard to understand the word in more detail, with an easy example sentence.

I barely passed the spelling test, probably because I spelled “potato” with three o’s and a question mark.

I barely reached the cookie jar, using a chair, three books, and my best bad idea.

My pencil barely moved during math class, but my brain ran a full marathon.

I barely bent down to tie my shoe, and my backpack decided that was the perfect time to attack me from behind.

I barely whispered, and Mom still heard me say “cookies,” proving she has snack radar.

A boy carried a tray of warm cookies up the steps. He could barely hold it, his hands shaking; he barely kept his balance. The dog bumped his leg and the tray barely tipped; one cookie slid but barely missed the floor. He set the tray on the table and barely smiled, relieved when everyone clapped.

This word is featured in some playlists to help boost your English vocabulary! Check out where “barely” (仅仅) makes an appearance and dive into themed playlists that make learning fun. 👍

This word is at the B2 level, which means it’s used in more complex conversations and texts. It helps you discuss abstract ideas, express opinions clearly, and engage in discussions on a variety of topics, both personal and professional.

Expanding your English vocabulary is one of the best ways to improve your pronunciation, spelling, and confidence in English. Watch the video above to memorize the word, understand its meaning, and see example sentences in action. Discover related words to grow your vocabulary naturally. Add words to your playlist for stress-free, effective learning—anytime, anywhere! Watch, learn, repeat.