AT LEAST Meaning and
Definition
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"At least" is a common English phrase that suggests a minimum or lower limit in a specific context. It implies a quantity, amount, or degree that is considered as the bare minimum, indicating that the actual value may be higher or more desirable. This phrase emphasizes that the mentioned amount is the absolute minimum required or expected.
In numerical terms, "at least" signifies the smallest number or value that can be used or accepted. For example, if someone says, "You should study for at least three hours," it means that studying for three hours is the minimum recommended or expected duration, and studying for a longer time may be even better.
Additionally, the phrase "at least" can be used to introduce an understatement or an understated estimate. It indicates that the actual amount or outcome is likely to be higher or exceed the stated minimum. For instance, if one says, "There were at least 100 people at the party," it implies that there were probably more than 100 people in reality, but the speaker wants to emphasize the minimum number observed.
Overall, "at least" sets a bottommost limit or threshold with the understanding that there may be more or be room for improvement beyond that specified amount or level.
Common Misspellings for AT LEAST
- zt least
- st least
- wt least
- qt least
- ar least
- af least
- ag least
- ay least
- a6 least
- a5 least
- at keast
- at peast
- at oeast
- at ldast
- at lrast
- at l4ast
- at l3ast
- at lezst
- at lesst
Etymology of AT LEAST
The phrase "at least" originated from Middle English and can be traced back to Old English. It is derived from the combination of two words: "at" and "least".
The word "at" is derived from Old English "æt", which meant "at" or "to". It had various uses, including indicating location or time.
The word "least" is derived from Old English "læst", which means "smallest", "littlest", or "minimum". It is related to the Old English word "læs", meaning "less" or "smaller".
When combined, "at" and "least" form the phrase "at least", which implies a minimum or minimum requirement. Over time, the phrase has continued to be used in its current form, indicating the lowest possible extent or degree.
Idioms with the word AT LEAST
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at least so many
The idiom "at least so many" refers to a minimum number or amount of something. It indicates that the specified quantity is a minimum requirement, and there may be more of it than mentioned.
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at least
At least is used to indicate that a certain minimum amount or level has been met or exceeded, often implying that the actual amount may be greater. It is used to emphasize the lowest amount, number, or degree in a range of possibilities.
Similar spelling words for AT LEAST
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