わずかに is an adverb that emphasizes that something is very small in amount, degree, or extent. It often translates as 'slightly' or 'barely' when describing a change or difference, and as 'only' when specifying a small quantity. It can also convey the sense of a narrow margin, as in 'narrowly' avoiding an accident.

This word is neutral in register, appearing in both written and spoken Japanese, though in casual conversation you might hear ちょっと more often. In formal writing or news, わずかに is common and gives a precise, slightly literary tone.

When used with verbs, it often appears directly before the verb, as in わずかに増える (increase slightly). With adjectives, it modifies the degree, like わずかに高い (slightly expensive). It can also precede a noun when used with の, but the adverbial form わずかに is more common before verbs and adjectives.