# least

/ˈɫist/ (US) · /lˈiːst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/least
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. to the smallest degree

adverb · CEFR B1

used to show that something is true to the smallest degree.

For teachers: used to form the superlative of adjectives or to modify verbs, indicating the lowest degree or intensity.

- This was the least expensive car in the entire showroom.
- Of all the proposed solutions, this one is the least likely to cause long-term environmental damage to the local ecosystem.

### 3. the smallest thing

pronoun · CEFR B1

the smallest thing or the smallest amount possible.

For teachers: the smallest amount, extent, or importance, often used as the object of a verb or preposition.

- The least you can do is say thank you for the gift.
- While the fine was substantial, it was the least of his worries compared to the potential loss of his professional license.

### 4. insignificant people

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary · Formal

people who have the lowest rank or the least power.

For teachers: the lowest-ranking or most insignificant members of a group.

- The king promised to care for even the least of his subjects.
- The ethical framework demands that we consider the impact of our policies on the least among us, rather than just the powerful.

Usage: Often appears in the phrase 'the least of these' or 'the least among us'.

## Examples

- This is the least expensive phone in the shop.
- Even the least bit of noise makes it difficult for her to concentrate on her work.
- While many factors contributed to the failure of the negotiations, the lack of time was perhaps the least significant of their concerns.

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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.