as low as

USAGE SUMMARY

"as low as" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a number or amount that is the least possible. For example, "The store is offering steaks at as low as $5 per pound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unemployment dropped as low as 6.6 percent.

The New York Times - Sports

This is as low as Broadway gets.

The New Yorker

as low as 64.

The New York Times

Some estimates go as low as 20,000.

The Economist

Doubles as low as $85.

The New York Times - Travel

This season was as low as ever.

The Guardian - Sport

Prices start as low as 30 shekels.

The New York Times - Travel

They fell as low as $10.63.

The New York Times

Earlier, they fell as low as $44.65.

The New York Times

Temperatures can fall as low as −89C.

The Guardian - Travel

Doubles may be as low as $139.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as low as" to highlight an attractive minimum value, especially in contexts like pricing or statistics to draw attention to favorable conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "as low as" when a precise figure is needed. This phrase works best when indicating a lower limit within a range, not when specifying an exact, non-negotiable value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as low as" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or noun phrase, indicating the minimum value or extent of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage for describing a minimum number or amount.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as low as" is a versatile phrase used to highlight a minimum value or a lower limit, as validated by Ludwig. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely employed across varied contexts. Its function is to emphasize minimal conditions in areas such as pricing, statistics, and more. While generally neutral in tone, it's essential to use "as low as" appropriately, especially in avoiding ambiguity where precise figures are necessary. The phrase sees prevalent usage in sources like "The New York Times", "The Guardian", and "Forbes", demonstrating its broad acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the lowest being

Indicates the absolute minimum within a set or range of values, emphasizing the extreme end.

minimum value of

Directly states the smallest possible quantity or amount, highlighting the lowest end of a spectrum.

no less than

Emphasizes that the value is at least a certain amount, implying a standard or expectation.

at a minimum of

Indicates the smallest acceptable or possible amount, emphasizing a requirement rather than a potential range.

a base level of

Highlights a foundational amount or quantity, implying a starting point for further development or increase.

a floor of

Implies a baseline or minimum threshold, often used in financial or economic contexts.

starting from

Focuses on the initial point in a series or range of values, suggesting a progression from that point.

reaching a nadir of

Similar to 'bottoming out', but is more formal and specific, suggesting the lowest point in a cycle or process.

bottoming out at

Describes a situation where something reaches its lowest point before potentially increasing.

at rock bottom

Suggests that something is at its absolute lowest point, often in a negative or critical situation.

FAQs

How can I use "as low as" in a sentence?

The phrase "as low as" is used to indicate a minimum or starting point in a range. For example, "Prices start "as low as" $10" suggests that $10 is the lowest price available, and prices may be higher.

What phrases are similar to "as low as"?

Similar phrases include "at a minimum of", "starting from", or "no less than". The best alternative depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "as low as" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "as low as" can sometimes sound informal. In very formal contexts, consider alternatives like "a minimum of" or specifying a precise range instead.

Can "as low as" be used for abstract concepts, or only for numerical values?

While most commonly used with numerical values (e.g., prices, percentages), "as low as" can also apply to abstract concepts that can be graded or quantified, such as "risk "as low as" possible".