How broad is the meaning of this in other languages? In English it can be used to modify a number/adjective, like "almost seven", but also a verb, like "I almost died." The meaning is actually quite different, because "it's almost seven" means it soon will be seven, but "I almost died" means I didn't die, but was in danger of it.

I think that almost can be used to modify all kinds of words. I am almost 175 cm tall. I am almost at home now. I have almost 7 euros in my wallet. I almost said it. Frankly, I don't see any difference in the meaning of "almost".