ENGLISH
REFERENCE

slightest

adj.
B1 Intermediate US //ˈsɫaɪtəst// UK //slˈaɪtəst// slight·est Archaic

adj. the smallest amount of something possible. You often use it in negative sentences to say you have no idea or no interest at all.

adj. the superlative form of 'slight', indicating the smallest possible degree or amount. Frequently used in negative constructions to emphasize a total lack of something.


SIMPLE

I don't have the slightest idea what he means.

CONTEXTUAL

She didn't show the slightest bit of fear when the storm began to rattle the windows.

COMPLEX

The witness claimed she did not have the slightest recollection of the events, despite the prosecutor presenting several photographs of her at the scene.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Superlative form; almost exclusively used with the definite article 'the' and often paired with 'idea', 'doubt', or 'interest'.

Pitfall

I don't have slightest idea.I don't have the slightest idea.As a superlative adjective, it requires the definite article 'the' before it.

Idioms1 entry

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