the least possible

USAGE SUMMARY

"the least possible" is an acceptable and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the smallest or lowest amount of something. For example: "He charged the least possible amount for the repair job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The least possible.

The Economist

He promises "the least possible impact".

The New York Times - Sports

To describe each vector using the least possible amount of information.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The mechanical properties of the joints were significantly better at the least possible workpiece surface roughness.

Surface and Coatings Technology

I want to complete this task at the least possible cost to America's sons and daughters".

The New York Times

So the game should go ahead tomorrow, causing the least possible inconvenience to the England supporters.

The Guardian - Sport

And most of all, we would have the least possible amount of technology, of technical mediation.

The Guardian - Film

"It seemed more about providing the least possible amount of information.

The Guardian

I have no apology for the anger; it seems the least possible memorial to the dead.

The New York Times

In theory, an essentially two-dimensional membrane like this one provides the least possible resistance.

MIT Technology Review

Reconfigurable systems expend the least possible amount of time in their calibration.

Measurement

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for brevity, consider using "the least possible" to convey the idea of minimizing something to its lowest achievable level.

Common error

While "the least possible" is acceptable, ensure that the context doesn't already imply minimization. Avoid phrases like "minimize to the least possible amount" as they can be redundant. Strive for concise language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the least possible" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to emphasize the minimization or reduction of something to its lowest achievable extent, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the least possible" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase in English. It serves to minimize something to the lowest achievable level. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid redundancy and ensure appropriate usage with countable vs. non-countable nouns. The phrase is suitable for various registers, maintaining a neutral tone while effectively conveying the intention of minimization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the minimum feasible

Emphasizes the smallest amount that is also practical or achievable.

the absolute minimum

Highlights that there can be no less than the stated amount.

the bare minimum

Suggests a reduction to the most essential or basic level.

the smallest conceivable

Focuses on what is imaginable or thinkable as the smallest amount.

the uttermost minimum

Stresses the extreme end of reduction or limitation.

the lowest imaginable

Refers to the bottom-most point within what can be envisioned.

the slightest potential

Indicates even the smallest amount of possibility or opportunity.

the minimal achievable

Highlights the practical realization of the smallest amount.

the irreducible minimum

Emphasizes that the amount cannot be further reduced without affecting core functionality.

the rock-bottom level

Uses an informal expression to suggest the lowest possible limit.

FAQs

How can I use "the least possible" in a sentence?

Use "the least possible" to describe efforts to minimize something: "We aim to cause "the least possible inconvenience" to residents during construction."

What's a more formal way to say "the least possible"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "the minimum feasible" or "the absolute minimum" instead of "the least possible".

Is it always correct to use "the least possible"?

While generally correct, ensure the context isn't redundant. For example, avoid saying "minimize to the least possible degree" as it's repetitive. Simply use "minimize".

When should I choose "the least possible" over "the fewest possible"?

"The least possible" is used for non-countable nouns: "We want "the least possible interference"." "The fewest possible" is for countable nouns: "Use the fewest possible resources".