margin
word
Definition
The edge or border of something, like a page or area. Also, the difference between costs and profits, often used in business and finance.
Usage & Nuances
In business, 'profit margin' refers to profitability. In documents, it means the blank space around text. Can also mean a small amount of difference or extra space/time. Do not confuse with 'margin' in voting ('won by a narrow margin'). Mostly formal or neutral usage.
Example Sentences
Please write your name in the margin of the page.
basic
The company increased its profit margin last year.
basic
There is a small margin for error in this test.
basic
The notes in the margin helped me understand the lesson.
natural
We finished the project with only a thin margin of time left.
natural
Her team won by a wide margin in the final game.
natural