at least

The amount or level mentioned is the smallest possible; the real amount may be greater.

• We need at least two chairs.
• The journey took at least five hours.
• Have you read at least one of these books?

How to use it: at least + number/amount (You need at least three people for this game.)

Similar words: no less than, a minimum of

Opposites: at most

Common phrases: at least two, at least once, at least ten minutes, at least a hundred

Used to point out something good in a situation that is otherwise bad.

• It rained, but at least we had fun.
• At least nobody was hurt in the crash.
• We missed the train, but at least we can have lunch.

Similar words: anyway, in any case

Common phrases: but at least, at least someone survived, at least something works

Used to name the smallest action or result that would be acceptable.

• You could at least say thanks.
• If you cannot help, at least listen.
• They should have at least warned us.

Similar words: at a minimum, at the very least

Common phrases: at least try, at least apologize, at least say thanks

Used to correct what you just said or show that you are less certain about it.

• She is happy, or at least she seems happy.
• It will be easy. At least, that is what I was told.
• Everyone agreed, or at least nobody objected.

Similar words: at any rate, anyway

Common phrases: or at least, at least probably, at least usually

Used to say that your next point remains true whatever else may be true.

• Perhaps he forgot. At least, I sent him a reminder.
• They may disagree. At least, the decision has been made.
• I cannot explain her silence. At least, she received the letter.

Similar words: anyway, in any event, at any rate

Common phrases: at least someone knows, at least someone tried