then at least

USAGE SUMMARY

"then at least" is a valid phrase in written English.
It typically appears at the beginning of a clause and is used to mean that something is the least that can be expected or done in a situation. For example, "If we can't find a solution, then at least we can learn from our mistakes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

If not lunch then at least a snack.

The New York Times

"Back then, at least we had some help".

The New York Times

By then, at least Wright had overcome the elements.

The New York Times - Sports

Since then at least 35 people have been killed.

The Economist

If not for good, then at least until next August.

The New York Times

Or if not love, then at least take it seriously.

The New York Times

Since then, at least 50 other complaints have been filed.

Independent

IF YOU cannot succeed, then at least fail gracefully.

The Economist

Since then, at least two other businesses have closed.

The New York Times

Then at least that year in Manchester wasn't completely wasted".

The Guardian

Then at least we'll find out who he really is.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then at least" to set a lower-bound expectation or a minimal acceptable outcome when other desired results are uncertain or unattainable. It helps in managing expectations and focusing on what can be realistically achieved.

Common error

Avoid framing "then at least" as the only goal. Over-reliance on minimal expectations can lead to a lack of ambition or prevent the exploration of more beneficial opportunities. Ensure it serves as a fallback, not a primary objective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then at least" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause to indicate a minimal expectation or fallback scenario. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in setting a lower-bound expectation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then at least" serves as a useful adverbial phrase for expressing minimal expectations or fallback scenarios. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase helps manage expectations by setting a lower-bound outcome, ensuring that some level of achievement is considered acceptable, even if ideal results are unattainable. While it's important to use "then at least" to guide conversations and set expectations, be aware of the common pitfall that many writers fall into when they set minimal expectations as the sole goal. Instead, remember that it should be used as a fallback, not a primary objective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the very least

This alternative emphasizes the minimum acceptable outcome or condition.

at the least

A shorter, more direct way of expressing a minimum expectation.

at a bare minimum

Stresses the need to meet the lowest possible standard.

as a minimum

Focuses on the lowest acceptable standard or requirement.

if nothing else

Highlights a single, possibly limited, benefit or outcome.

in the minimum

Emphasizes achieving the smallest possible result or requirement.

to say the least

Used to indicate that something is even more significant than stated.

if that's all

Indicates acceptance of a limited or minimal outcome.

if only

Highlights a desired but possibly unattainable condition.

as a starting point

Suggests a minimum action or step to begin with.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "then at least" in a sentence?

Use "then at least" to introduce a minimal acceptable outcome or expectation, particularly when ideal results are uncertain. For example, "If we can't win the competition, "then at least" we should gain valuable experience".

What are some alternatives to "then at least" that I can use?

Consider using phrases like "at the very least", "if nothing else", or "as a minimum" to convey a similar meaning of minimal expectation or outcome.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "then at least"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Starting a sentence with ""then at least"" is a common way to introduce a clause that sets a minimum expectation or acceptable result.

How does the meaning of "then at least" differ from "at least"?

"At least" emphasizes the positive aspect of a situation, while ""then at least"" introduces a minimal acceptable outcome as a contingency. "At least" can stand alone to highlight a benefit, whereas ""then at least"" typically follows a condition or unrealized expectation.