at least so

USAGE SUMMARY

"at least so" is a phrase that can be used in written English.
It is generally used to indicate that the preceding statement is true or likely to be true. For example, "He had not gone to bed yet, at least so his mother assumed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

At least so far.

Columbia University

At least, so the story goes.

The New Yorker

At least, so he says!

The New York Times

At least so I thought.

The Guardian

At least, so goes the theory.

The New York Times - Food

Jagger qualifies, at least so far.

The New York Times - Sports

Or at least so you might think.

The Guardian - Film

"Or at least, so it seems.

The New York Times

At least so he says now.

The Guardian - Opinion

Investors have agreed, at least so far.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Or you'd at least hope so".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at least so" to indicate that your statement is based on an assumption or incomplete information. This adds a layer of nuance to your writing, acknowledging potential uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "at least so" when you possess definitive proof. The phrase implies a degree of uncertainty, so ensure it aligns with the actual level of confidence in your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at least so" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a preceding statement. It indicates that the statement is based on an assumption or limited information. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is generally used to indicate that the preceding statement is true or likely to be true.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at least so" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to qualify statements with a degree of uncertainty or assumption. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is generally used to indicate that the preceding statement is true or likely to be true. Its frequent appearance in news and media, as well as academic and scientific sources, demonstrates its widespread applicability across different registers. While "at least so" is grammatically correct and widely accepted, remember to employ it judiciously to ensure it accurately reflects your level of certainty. Alternatives such as "or so it seems", "apparently", and "presumably" can provide nuanced options for expressing similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Or so it seems

Focuses more on appearance or perception rather than a definite assertion.

If that's any indication

Highlights that it is an indicator but not conclusive.

To all appearances

Emphasizes outward signs or superficial assessments.

As far as one can tell

Implies a limitation in the available information.

By all accounts

Suggests information gathered from multiple sources or reports.

It would seem

Conveys a sense of conjecture or tentative conclusion.

Apparently

Indicates information received from an external or unspecified source.

Presumably

Highlights that it is an assumption based on probability.

So it would appear

Similar to "or so it seems" but slightly more formal.

From what I gather

Specifies that the information is based on personal understanding or interpretation.

FAQs

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

Use "at least so" to indicate that you are making an assumption based on the available information. For example, "He said he was coming, "at least so" he told me."

What phrases are similar to "at least so"?

Alternatives to "at least so" include "or so it seems", "apparently", and "presumably".

Is it appropriate to use "at least so" in formal writing?

Yes, "at least so" can be used in formal writing to indicate a degree of uncertainty or an assumption. However, ensure that its usage aligns with the overall tone and context of your writing.

What does "at least so" imply about the statement it modifies?

The phrase "at least so" suggests that the statement is based on current information or belief but might not be entirely accurate or complete. It indicates a level of uncertainty or possibility of being incorrect.