at least basically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at least basically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a minimal level of understanding or agreement on a topic, suggesting that while the details may vary, there is a fundamental aspect that is acknowledged. Example: "While the project details are still being finalized, we can at least basically agree on the main objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Notwithstanding the angry psychic scars he bears on account of having been an active Stalinist in his red-diaper-baby youth, he has always seemed, to me at least, basically a gentle soul.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

John Julius Norwich, in his 1995 "Byzantium: The Decline and Fall," calls the crusading movement "one of the blackest chapters in the history of Christendom" and says that the Fourth Crusade, at least, was basically about loot.

The New Yorker

Whatever you think about Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, at least you basically know where they stand, but Trump's opinions have been wildly inconsistent," said Oliver.

Huffington Post

"And on TV at least, they've basically succeeded".

The New York Times - Arts

The recently postponed mandate, which applies to businesses with at least 50 employees, basically works two ways.

The New York Times

This week, though, the World literature tour comes into its own, as it heads into territory which is – at least to me – basically unknown.

The Guardian - Books

At least there he basically knew what he was doing, he had his training for guidance and the entire goddamn country wasn't watching to see if he'd fuck up, but this, this is all wing-and-a-prayer shit.

The Guardian - Books

Or, at least, the results basically said Facebook sucks.

TechCrunch

But ultimately, from what I've seen at least, there's basically nothing that would make me want to use Anybeat if I'm already using Facebook, Twitter, and/or Google+ or really any other social network today.

TechCrunch

Despite working in London, I come from the north – or a vague approximation of the north, at least, which is basically "beyond Watford" – and I can tell you this: it's just men shouting about cobs and women saying "duck".

Vice

Look, we have an intensely polarized political system, and in Congress, at least, party affiliation is basically all that matters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at least basically", ensure the basic agreement is genuinely present; otherwise, it can undermine credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "at least basically" when there is no fundamental consensus, as this can create false assumptions and hinder progress. Clarify the basic elements first.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at least basically" functions as a qualifier, setting a minimum condition or level of agreement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and usable. It is used to establish a base level of understanding or acceptance before delving into more detailed aspects of a topic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at least basically" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves to establish a foundational level of agreement or understanding. According to Ludwig AI, it is indeed proper English. Predominantly found in news and media, but also present in scientific and general contexts, this phrase sets a minimal condition before exploring further details. By setting clear conditions and avoiding overstatements, using "at least basically" effectively streamlines communication, and also helps prevent misunderstandings and reinforces a basic level of understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamentally at the very least

Emphasizes the underlying foundation before considering minimum requirements.

in essence at a minimum

Focuses on the core nature combined with a minimal condition.

essentially if nothing else

Highlights the key element under a basic circumstance.

at the base level at least

Stresses the rudimentary aspect combined with a minimal consideration.

minimally in its basic form

Indicates the bare minimum within a fundamental structure.

primarily at the lower end

Highlights the main component with emphasis on minimal extremity.

chiefly at the very least

Focuses on the primary aspect while ensuring a minimum level.

mainly in its simple form

Indicates the major aspect while simplifying the structural form.

principally if only

Emphasizes the principle matter with a conditional qualifier.

at core at a bare minimum

Highlights the essential core element under the fewest conditions.

FAQs

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

You can use "at least basically" to indicate a minimal level of agreement or understanding. For example, "While the project details are still being finalized, we can "at least basically" agree on the main objectives."

What phrases are similar to "at least basically"?

Alternatives include "fundamentally at the very least", "in essence at a minimum", or "essentially if nothing else". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to use "at least" and "basically" together?

While they might seem similar, using "at least basically" can emphasize a foundational agreement before considering specifics. The combination is used for emphasis.

In what kind of writing is "at least basically" most appropriate?

The phrase "at least basically" can be used in various writing styles, from news articles to scientific papers. The level of formality depends on the context.