At last, at least
“At Last” and “At Least” are two expressions that are often confused. Both contain the preposition “at” and only differ by one letter. However, their meanings are completely different, so it’s very important to remember when to use each one.
At Last
At last means finally or after a long wait. It is used to express joy or relief when something has ended or been achieved.
The train arrived at last after a long delay.
I finished my homework at last!
After waiting for hours, they could at last enter the concert hall.
I finished my homework at last!
After waiting for hours, they could at last enter the concert hall.
At Least
At least means minimum or not less than. It is used to express the smallest amount or the idea that something is better than nothing.
There were at least three people in the meeting.
I’ve read at least two chapters of the book.
You need to work at least 10 hours a week to complete the project.
I’ve read at least two chapters of the book.
You need to work at least 10 hours a week to complete the project.
Expressions with “At”
At the same time – in the same moment
They finished their meals at the same time.
At odds – in conflict
The two friends were at odds about the plans for the weekend.
At your service – ready to help
The waiter said, “I am at your service if you need anything.”
At risk – in danger
The hikers were at risk because of the storm.
At fault – responsible for something
He was at fault for forgetting the tickets.
Other ways to say At last
Finally
Eventually
In the end
At long last
After a long wait
In due course
Ultimately
After all this time
Eventually
In the end
At long last
After a long wait
In due course
Ultimately
After all this time
Examples
Finally, the train arrived after the delay.
In the end, they managed to solve the problem.
After all this time, he was able to finish his project.
In the end, they managed to solve the problem.
After all this time, he was able to finish his project.
Other ways to say At least
Minimum
As a minimum
No less than
At the very least
In any case
For sure
As a minimum
No less than
At the very least
In any case
For sure
Examples
There were no less than five people in the meeting.
You need to work a minimum of 10 hours a week to complete the project.
At the very least, we should try to make it on time.
You need to work a minimum of 10 hours a week to complete the project.
At the very least, we should try to make it on time.
