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vanishingly

/vænɪʃɪŋli/ adverb · British & US
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What does vanishingly mean?

Vanishingly is an adverb used to describe something that is extremely small or barely perceptible. It is often used to convey a sense of impossibility or extreme improbability. For example, the chances of winning the lottery are vanishingly small, or the probability of a random event occurring is vanishingly low. Vanishingly has a neutral connotation, but it can be used to imply a sense of impossibility or extreme improbability. It is generally formal or informal, but it can be used in both contexts. Vanishingly is often used with words like 'small', 'low', or 'improbable', and it is used in both British and US English. Overall, vanishingly is a useful word for describing extremely small or barely perceptible things, and it can add precision and nuance to one's language.

adverb

Used to describe something that is extremely small or barely perceptible.

Senses
  1. Used to describe something that is extremely small or barely perceptible.
Example

"The chances of winning the lottery are vanishingly small."

More examples

"The chances of winning the lottery are vanishingly small."

"The probability of a random event occurring is vanishingly low."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of vanishingly

Vanishingly is derived from the verb 'vanish', which means to disappear or become invisible. The adverbial form 'vanishingly' was likely formed by adding the suffix '-ly' to the verb. The word has been in use since the 17th century, and it has been used in both British and US English. Vanishingly is cognate with the verb 'vanishable', which means capable of being vanished or disappeared.

How vanishingly is actually used

Formal or informal usage: vanishingly is generally formal or informal, but it can be used in both contexts. Connotation: vanishingly has a neutral connotation, but it can imply a sense of impossibility or extreme improbability. Common collocations: vanishingly is often used with words like 'small', 'low', or 'improbable'. Regional differences: vanishingly is used in both British and US English, but it may be more common in British English.

What's another word for vanishingly?

What's the opposite of vanishingly?

Rhymes with vanishingly