“Miniscule” or “minuscule”: which is correct?

Why people get it wrong

People often assume the word is related to the prefix mini- meaning small, leading them to spell it as miniscule. In reality, minuscule is derived from the Latin word minus meaning less, which is why the correct spelling includes a u after the n.

What kind of mistake it is

It’s a spelling error.

Examples with minuscule

• The chances of winning the lottery are minuscule.
• Scientists observed the minuscule organisms under the microscope.
• She received a minuscule amount of compensation for her efforts.