least

A2 · Elementary General-service

adv. used to show that something happens less than anything else.

adv. used to form the negative superlative of adjectives or to indicate the lowest degree of an action.

“Of all the chores, I like washing the dishes the least.”

“The sectors that were least affected by the economic downturn were those providing essential utilities and healthcare services.”

B1 · Intermediate General-service

pron. the smallest thing or amount that is possible.

pron. the smallest amount, extent, or significance possible in a given context.

日本語:最小限※

“The least you could do is say thank you for the gift.”

“While many expected a grand apology, he offered only the least of concessions to satisfy the angry board members.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Philosophy Literary · Formal

n. people who have the lowest rank or the least power in a group.

n. the lowest-ranking, poorest, or most insignificant members of a social group or hierarchy.

“A good leader should care for the least of their citizens.”

“The philosopher argued that the true moral test of a society is how it treats the least among its population.”

A2 · Elementary General-service

adv. used to say that something is the minimum, or to add a positive comment to a bad situation.

adv. used to specify a minimum requirement or to provide a corrective or compensatory statement.

“It was a long trip, but at least the weather was beautiful.”

“The project will take at least six months to complete, assuming there are no further delays in the supply chain.”