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germinal

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈdʒɜːrmɪnəl/

KK: /ˈdʒɜrmɪnəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to the earliest stage of development or growth.


Example

The project is still in its germinal phase, with many ideas yet to be developed.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the germinal phase in plant growth?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's when the seeds start to develop, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's fascinating how everything begins in that germinal stage.
Sloth B
I know, it's like the start of something amazing.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
initial
nascent
embryonic
Antonyms
mature
developed
advanced
Root Explanation

Germinal → It is formed from "germen" (meaning sprout or seed) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "germinal" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of a seed or sprout, often indicating the beginning or origin of something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'germen' as a seed or sprout, which helps you remember that 'germinal' relates to beginnings or origins.

Visually Confused Words
verminal
terminal
gramineal
ceruminal
bigeminal
seminal
ruminal
gremial
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