German word

wenigstens

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈveːnɪçstəns/

Meaning

  • adverbat least

Example

Wir haben wenigstens zwei Stunden Zeit.

We have at least two hours.

Illustration for wenigstens (at least)

More examples

Er verdient wenigstens eine Chance.

He deserves at least one chance.

Core concept

A minimum line is crossed, leaving a guaranteed remainder even when more cannot be secured.

Common phrases

  • wenigstens eine Chance

    at least one chance

  • wenigstens das

    at least that

Similar words

zumindest: Shows that at least this much applies, even if the full situation remains uncertain.
mindestens: States a numerical or time-based minimum that is guaranteed to be met.
immerhin: Highlights a positive point or consolation despite an otherwise disappointing result.

Definition in German

Drückt ein Minimum oder eine Mindestanforderung aus und entspricht im Sinn 'zumindest'.

Word origin

Wenigstens combines the superlative form wenigst, meaning 'least', with the adverbial ending -ens to mark a minimum.

Usage tips

  • Wenigstens often carries a consoling 'if nothing else' nuance, whereas mindestens usually states a neutral numerical lower limit.

Other meanings

  • if nothing elseadverb

Opposites

Related words

  • wenigerlessadverb

Word lists with this word