“At least” is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used to indicate a minimum amount or number, and is used in a variety of contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and various meanings of “at least.”
Definitions
“At least” is a phrase that is used to indicate a minimum amount or number. It is often used to express a sense of certainty or assurance, as in “I know I have at least $20 in my wallet.” It can also be used to express a sense of comparison, as in “This new phone is at least twice as fast as my old one.”
Origin
The origin of “at least” is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Middle English. The phrase is made up of two words, “at” and “least,” both of which have Old English roots. “At” comes from the Old English word “æt,” which means “at” or “to,” while “least” comes from the Old English word “lǣst,” which means “smallest” or “least.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “at least” is defined as “not less than; at the minimum.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “not less than; at any rate.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “as much as, or more than, a number or amount.”
Associations
“At least” is often associated with a sense of certainty or assurance. It can also be associated with a sense of comparison, as in the example given earlier.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “at least” include “minimum,” “least,” “smallest,” and “bare minimum.”
Antonyms
Antonyms of “at least” include “at most,” “maximum,” and “greatest.”
The same root words
The root words of “at least” are “at” and “least,” both of which have Old English roots. “At” comes from the Old English word “æt,” which means “at” or “to,” while “least” comes from the Old English word “lǣst,” which means “smallest” or “least.”
Example Sentences
- “I have at least five more pages to read before I can go to bed.”
- “The project will take at least two weeks to complete.”
- “The temperature outside is at least 80 degrees.”