at least
fixed phr..fixed phr.. 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.
fixed phr.. A discourse marker indicating a minimum quantity or value. It also functions pragmatically to introduce a compensatory or positive point in a negative context.
You need at least five dollars for the bus.
The car broke down on the highway, but at least nobody was hurt.
While the initial results were disappointing, the study did at least establish a baseline methodology for future research into the phenomenon.
From Middle English at leste, from Old English æt lǣstan.
It usually comes before a number, or at the start of a clause to add a positive comment.
Contrast 'at least' (the minimum) with 'at most' (the maximum) to clarify the concept of lower and upper bounds.
I have least at five books.I have at least five books.The phrase 'at least' is a fixed unit and must come before the number it describes.