at its least

USAGE SUMMARY

"at its least" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example, "She had to work hard to find success, but at its least she was able to make a modest living."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Still, Ms. Tharp's choreography at its least complex looks like neuroscience compared with Mr. Duato's.

The New York Times - Arts

At its least convincing, it seems precious and slight, a transitional work by a genuine talent.

The New York Times - Books

At its least imposing it's every player playing along her own line, vaguely aware that others exist.

TechCrunch

But it has been at its best when it has been at its least consistent, in three main areas.The first is fiscal policy.

The Economist

It's when the drama turns to direct confrontation among its four principal characters that it is, curiously, at its least involving or believable.

The New York Times

Thus, if the pension-fund assets were in shares especially the firm's own shares the collateral would be at its least valuable just when it was needed most.A typical balance sheet is full of such oddities.

The Economist

The philosopher Peter Kivey noted that it is when Handelian opera seria is at its least characteristic - in its wonderfully dramatic and psychologically free-flowing accompanied recitatives - that we feel most comfortable with it.

The Guardian - Music

Skrillex makes dubstep at its least subtle.

The New York Times - Arts

That's reversification at its least appealing.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

At its worst, the predatory-conversion trope is simply offensive to lesbian women; at its least-worst, is just a realisation of how difficult it can be to navigate queer identity in a still-homophobic society.

The Guardian - Film

Depression, even at its least-invasive form of melancholy, detracts from the quality of life.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at its least" to highlight the most minimal or conservative estimate, expectation, or outcome in a given situation. For example, "At its least, this investment should protect your capital."

Common error

Avoid confusing "at its least" with "at last", which means "finally" or "after a long time". "At its least" emphasizes the minimum extent, while "at last" indicates completion or resolution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at its least" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to indicate the minimum extent or degree of something. It is typically used to set a lower boundary or to emphasize a conservative estimate. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at its least" is a versatile phrase used to specify the minimal extent or degree of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific writing. While it is generally neutral in register, writers should avoid confusing it with "at last". Remember to use it when you want to emphasize the lower boundary of an estimate or expectation, providing clarity and managing expectations effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the very least

Emphasizes the minimum expectation or outcome.

at the lowest

Directly refers to the lowest possible level or degree.

at a minimum

Focuses on the minimal acceptable level or requirement.

as a bare minimum

Highlights the most basic or essential requirement.

if nothing else

Indicates that even if other things fail, at least this much is true.

to the smallest degree

Highlights the minimal extent or amount of something.

at rock bottom

Conveys the idea of the absolute lowest point or level.

at a reduced level

Suggests a decrease or lessening of something.

as a lower bound

Expresses the concept using mathematical terminology.

in the slightest

Emphasizes the smallness or insignificance of something.

FAQs

How can I use "at its least" in a sentence?

Use "at its least" to specify the minimum possible extent or degree of something. For instance, "Even "at its least", the project will require a significant investment of time".

What is a good alternative to "at its least"?

You can use alternatives like "at the very least", "at a minimum", or "if nothing else" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "at its least" and "at last"?

"At its least" refers to the minimum extent or degree, whereas "at last" means "finally" or "after a long time". They have completely different meanings and usages.

Is "at its least" formal or informal?

"At its least" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, as it is a fairly neutral phrase. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure.