least
smallest in amount or degree
Smallest in amount, size, or level.
the least [noun/adjective]
- This is the least expensive option available.
- She showed the least interest in the project.
- Of all the players, he is the least experienced.
- This is the least big bag here.
- He is the least tall boy in the class.
- It is the least cold day this week.
to the smallest extent
Used to say that something happens in a very small way or is not true at all.
least [verb/adjective]
- She was the one who complained the least.
- I like it least when people are rude.
- He worries least about money.
- I eat vegetables the least.
- She talks the least in the group.
- He studies English the least of all students.
smallest possible amount
The smallest amount or level of something.
the least of [something]
- The noise was the least of my problems.
- At the very least, call me when you arrive.
- That’s the least we can do.
- It is the least of my problems.
- At the least, tell me your name.
- The cost is the least I can pay.
- Base: least
- Comparative: leaster
- Superlative: leastest
- Base: least
- Plural: leasts
to say the least
1used for understatement
Used to show that what you said is not strong enough to describe how bad, good, or extreme something really is.
- His behavior was rude, to say the least.
- The trip was exhausting, to say the least.
at least
1no less than stated amount/fact
Used to show that a number or fact is not less than what you say, or to add a positive point after something negative.
- You should sleep for at least seven hours a night.
- It’s cold, but at least it’s not raining.
at least
2No less than a stated amount
Shows the smallest number or level possible, or gives a positive side.
- You should sleep for at least eight hours.
- At least we finished the project on time.
at the very least
1minimum possible requirement
Used to say that something is the smallest thing that should be done or expected.
- You could have called me, at the very least.
- At the very least, wear a helmet when cycling.
at the very least
2No less than stated amount
Used to say that something is the smallest amount or degree that could be true or acceptable.
- You should, at the very least, call her to apologize.
- At the very least, we can offer them some food and water.