Geringfügig

geringfügig is a German adverb and adjective that translates to "minor," "slight," "trifling," or "insignificant" in English. It is commonly used to describe something that is small in amount, degree, or importance. The term often implies that something is not of great consequence and can be overlooked or easily managed.

In a legal or official context, geringfügig can refer to a low income threshold. For example, a geringfügig employment situation in Germany, often referred to as a "minijob," is a job where the monthly earnings do not exceed a certain amount. This threshold is regularly adjusted by the government and has implications for social security contributions and taxes. Similarly, a geringfügiger Schaden refers to a minor damage that is not substantial.

The word can also be used in everyday language to describe a small, almost unnoticeable difference or deviation. For instance, a geringfügige Veränderung might be a barely perceptible change in color or texture. The opposite of geringfügig would be something significant, major, or substantial. The core meaning revolves around a lack of significant impact or size.