The correct usage of ‘at least’ and ‘atleast’ often confuses English learners. While one is a standard English phrase, the other is a common misspelling.
However, this guide will explain the difference between the two, and provide examples of how to use them correctly.
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Contents
What Is The Difference Between “Atleast” And “At Least”?
While they may sound similar, their meanings and usages are entirely different.
| Word | Correct? | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Atleast | No | Incorrect spelling |
| At least | Yes | Minimum quantity or degree |
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Atleast is an incorrect spelling and is not recognized as a standard English word. Its misuse often derives from a typographical error or a misunderstanding of the correct phrase.
At least is a quantifier that indicates a minimum amount, degree, or number. It means a lower boundary or limit.
For instance, “I need at least three hours to complete this task” implies that three hours is the absolute minimum time required.
To explain the difference:
- Incorrect: I have to finish atleast three tasks today.
- Correct: I have to finish at least three tasks today.
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How To Use “At Least” Correctly?
“At least” can be used as an adjective to describe a noun. Example: “I need at least three hours to finish this report.” Also, It’s often used with numbers to specify a minimum quantity.
Example: “There were at least 20 people at the party.” You can also use “at least” to compare two or more things.
For example: “This cake is at least as good as the one I had yesterday.” However, the most common error people make when using “at least” is misspelling it as “atleast”.
Always double-check your spelling. Using “at least” when you mean “at most” is another common mistake.
Example:
Incorrect: “I can only eat at least two slices of pizza.”
Correct: “I can only eat at most two slices of pizza.”
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Examples Of “At Least” In Sentences
Let’s see how to use “at least” in different sentences:
“At Least” in Everyday Language
- I need at least an hour to finish this report.
- There were at least 50 people at the party.
- It will cost at least $20 to fix my phone.
“At Least” in Comparisons
- This cake is at least as good as the one I had yesterday.
- She is at least as tall as her sister.
- This book is at least as interesting as the last one.
“At Least” in Formal Writing
- The study revealed that at least 75% of participants experienced improvement.
- The company has been in operation for at least a decade.
- It is essential to allocate at least 30 minutes per day for exercise.
“At Least” in Different Sentence Structures
- Question: Will it take at least an hour to get there?
- Exclamation: I’ve been waiting for at least an hour!
- Command: Spend at least 15 minutes reading each day.
“At Least” vs. Similar Phrases
Let’s compare “at least” to some common phrases:
| Phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| At least | Minimum quantity or degree | I need at least 3 hours to finish. |
| At most | Maximum quantity or degree | I can wait at most 15 minutes. |
| At all | In any way or degree | Is there anything you can do at all? |
| At once | Immediately or together | Please do it at once. |
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FAQs About “At Least” And “Atleast”
What Is The Correct Spelling: “Atleast” Or “At least”?
The correct spelling is “at least.” “Atleast” is a common misspelling.
What Does “At least” Mean?
“At least” means a minimum quantity or degree. It indicates a lower limit or boundary.
How Do I Use “At least” In A Sentence?
You can use “at least” with numbers to indicate a minimum quantity (e.g., “I need at least 3 hours”) or to compare things (e.g., “This cake is at least as good as the last one”).
What Is The Difference Between “At least” And “At most”?
“At least” refers to the minimum amount, while “at most” refers to the maximum amount.