What it means
わずかに is an adverb meaning “slightly” or “barely.” It indicates that a degree, amount, change, or difference is small, and it often presents that small degree in an objective or measured way. It commonly modifies adjectives and verbs describing measurable states or changes. Compared with 少し, わずかに is often more formal or more characteristic of written and analytical language, although the degree of precision depends on the context.
Usage note
わずかに is not normally used as a direct modifier of a noun. When expressing a small quantity of something, use a quantity expression such as わずかな量の水 instead. Also, with emotional or evaluative adjectives, choose a predicate that can naturally express a small degree, rather than forcing わずかに into an unnatural particle pattern.
How to use it
彼の説明はわずかに不十分です。
His explanation is slightly inadequate.
温度がわずかに高いです。
The temperature is slightly high.
売上高がわずかに増加します。
The sales revenue increases slightly.
彼の説明はわずかに不十分だ。
His explanation is slightly inadequate.
温度がわずかに高い。
The temperature is slightly high.
売上高がわずかに増加する。
The sales revenue increases slightly.
Example sentences
今月の電気使用量は先月よりわずかに少ないです。
This month's electricity usage is slightly lower than last month's.
新しい制度の導入後、図書館の利用者数はわずかに増えました。
After the introduction of the new system, the number of library users increased slightly.
この薬を飲むと、眠気がわずかに強くなることがあります。
After taking this medicine, drowsiness may become slightly stronger.