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Commonly Confused Words
Barely than/Barely when
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Barely than vs. Barely when
Barely than
/ˈbɛr.li ðæn/
A phrase used in English to indicate a very small degree of difference or a minimal comparison between two subjects.
Examples:
H
e barely than finished before the timer beeped.
S
he barely than greeted him as she walked out.
T
he soup was barely than lukewarm when served.
Synonyms:
hardly
scarcely
Antonyms:
This word has no antonyms
Barely when
/ˈbɛər.li wɛn/
Used to indicate that something happened only just or was unlikely.
Examples:
B
arely when the storm subsided, we ventured outside.
B
arely when the game started, she scored a goal.
B
arely when I sat down, the phone rang again.
Synonyms:
scarcely when
Antonyms:
This word has no antonyms
Ways to tell them apart:
Remember that
barely than
is incorrect;
barely when
refers to time frames.
Barely
implies a minimal amount, while
when
indicates time or circumstance.
To recall correct usage, associate
barely when
with instances needing time or timing;
than
is not used with
barely
.
Avoid using
than
after
barely
, it's a mix-up with comparative constructions.
When using
barely
, make sure it sets the minimal conditions for something specific, often related to time with
when
.
When to use barely when:
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