At the very least

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "At the very least" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the minimum expectation or requirement in a given situation. Example: "At the very least, we should acknowledge the effort that everyone has put into this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the very least, Bacharach.

The New York Times - Food

At the very least it is that.

The New York Times

At the very least, it was predictable.

The Washington Post

At the very least.

BBC

At the very least, do your homework.

Forbes

At the very least, let it begin.

Forbes

At the very least, he isn't.

BBC

At the very least, call 911.

Los Angeles Times

At the very least, reforms.

Huffington Post

At the very least, predictable.

Huffington Post

At the very least, it's time consuming.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "At the very least" to clearly define the minimum acceptable action or condition in a given situation.

Common error

While versatile, avoid overusing "At the very least" in formal writing; consider stronger, more precise language to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "At the very least" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause or sentence to express the minimum requirement or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "At the very least" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the minimum acceptable action or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage. While commonly found in news and media, and acceptable across registers, it's important to avoid overuse in formal contexts where more precise language might be preferred. Consider alternatives like "as a minimum" or "at a bare minimum" to vary your writing. The phrase functions adverbially, setting a lower bound or minimal condition in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

At a bare minimum

Emphasizes that the stated requirement is the absolute lowest acceptable level.

As a minimum

Replaces "at the very least" with a more concise and slightly more formal expression.

At minimum

A shortened version that is less emphatic but still conveys the basic meaning.

If nothing else

Highlights that even if other things fail, this minimum action should be taken.

At the most basic level

Highlights the most fundamental requirement or aspect.

As a starting point

Suggests the minimum action needed as the first step in a process.

At the base level

Similar to "at the most basic level", focusing on the foundational aspect.

As an initial step

Implies that the mentioned action is merely the beginning of a longer process.

At the slightest

Indicates the smallest degree or action that is acceptable.

To say the least

Understates the situation, implying the actual case is more significant.

FAQs

How can I use "At the very least" in a sentence?

"At the very least" is used to indicate the minimum expectation or requirement. For example: "At the very least, we should acknowledge their contribution."

What are some alternatives to "At the very least"?

You can use alternatives like "as a minimum", "at a bare minimum", or "at minimum" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "At the least" instead of "At the very least"?

While "at the least" is grammatically correct, "At the very least" adds emphasis to the minimum requirement.

What's the difference between "At the very least" and "at best"?

"At the very least" indicates the minimum acceptable outcome, while "at best" suggests the most optimistic or favorable outcome that can be expected.