# at least

idiom · CEFR A2

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/at-least
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

You use 'at least' to show the minimum number or amount of something. It can also be used to point out a positive part of a bad situation.

## Examples

- You need at least ten dollars for the bus.
- The flight was delayed for hours, but at least we had plenty of snacks to eat while we waited.
- Although the project failed to meet the primary objective, at least the team gained valuable experience that will prevent similar errors in the future.

## Origin

From Middle English *at leste*, derived from the Old English *æt lǣstan*.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.