Meaning
Not less than; used to indicate a minimum amount or condition.
Cultural Background
Americans use 'at least' constantly to maintain positivity in casual conversation. British speakers often use it with a sense of dry irony. Using 'at least' can be seen as a way to avoid direct confrontation or negative statements.
Focus on the floor
Whenever you see 'at least', think of a floor. You cannot go below this number.
Don't say 'at least' for 'finally'
This is the most common mistake for learners. Use 'at last' for time.
Meaning
Not less than; used to indicate a minimum amount or condition.
Focus on the floor
Whenever you see 'at least', think of a floor. You cannot go below this number.
Don't say 'at least' for 'finally'
This is the most common mistake for learners. Use 'at last' for time.
The silver lining
Use this phrase to make friends feel better when things go wrong.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank.
I have _______ five brothers.
We are talking about a minimum quantity.
Choose the correct phrase.
The party was boring, but _______ we had cake.
This is a silver lining.
Match the meaning.
At least = ?
At least defines the floor.
Complete the dialogue.
Person A: 'I lost my keys.' Person B: '_______ you have your phone.'
Comforting someone.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesI have _______ five brothers.
We are talking about a minimum quantity.
The party was boring, but _______ we had cake.
This is a silver lining.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
At least defines the floor.
Person A: 'I lost my keys.' Person B: '_______ you have your phone.'
Comforting someone.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsIt is neutral. It works in both business and casual settings.
Yes, but it is usually at the start or middle.
'At least' is the minimum, 'at most' is the maximum.
To add emphasis to the minimum requirement.
Yes, it is very common in professional emails.
Usually it modifies nouns or whole clauses.
No, it is an invariable phrase.
No, it is standard English.
Related Phrases
At most
contrastThe maximum amount.
At last
contrastFinally.
At the very least
builds onEmphasis on the minimum.
