Minimální

Minimální is a Czech adjective meaning minimal or relating to the minimum. It describes quantities, values, or characteristics that are the smallest possible, required, or legally set. The term is common in legal, economic, scientific, and everyday language. Examples include minimální mzda (minimum wage), minimální délka (minimum length), and minimální věk (minimum age).

Etymology and formation: Minimální is formed from the noun minimum, borrowed from Latin, and joined with the Czech suffix -ální to create an adjective meaning “relating to the minimum.” It is used with nouns in various genders and numbers and inflects like other Czech adjectives.

Usage and nuance: Minimální stresses threshold or lower bound and is used in formal, technical, or normative contexts. It can contrast with terms like nejnižší (the lowest) or základní (basic), depending on the nuance desired. In mathematics, statistics, and policy, minimální often introduces a required or permissible minimum value or level.

Related terms: The related noun minimum (neuter) denotes the minimum value or level itself; its plural form is commonly minima in many contexts. The concept also appears in phrases such as "minimální hodnota" (minimal value) or "minimální krok" (minimum increment).

See also: minimum, minimalismus.