至少

• Pinyin: zhì shǎo
• Hanzi breakdown: 至 = pictograph of an arrow reaching its target; 少 = 小 (small) with a stroke removed, meaning few

Meaning

At least; at minimum. Used to indicate the minimum amount, degree, or extent of something.

Used to set a lower bound for quantities, expectations, or conditions. Can precede numbers (至少三个) or clauses (至少他还在). Sometimes used to present a silver lining or positive perspective on an otherwise negative situation. The opposite is 至多 (at most), though 最多 is more commonly used.

Examples

1. 这个工作至少需要两个人。 This job requires at least two people.
2. 你至少应该给他打个电话。 You should at least give him a phone call.
3. 虽然没去成旅游，但至少我们一起吃了顿好饭。 Although we couldn't go on the trip, at least we had a nice meal together.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, reasoning, estimation

Tone: pragmatic

Do Say

• 你至少要休息一天。(You should rest for at least one day.)
• 至少我们试过了。(At least we tried.)

Don't Say

• 这是至少的好消息。(Don't use 至少 as an adjective before a noun — use it as an adverb before a verb or number; say 这至少是个好消息)

Origin & History

至 (reach, extreme) + 少 (few, little). Together they mean 'reaching the least,' hence 'at minimum.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal