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least

/liːst/
adjectivedetermineradverb★Beginner— smallest in size, amount, or importance
general

The smallest in size, amount, or importance

He was the least experienced member of the team.

He had the least experience among the team members.

💡

Often used with 'the' to indicate the smallest degree or quantity.

general

To the smallest degree or extent

She cared least about the outcome.

She cared the least about the outcome.

💡

Used as an adverb to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.

Collocations

at leastused to indicate a minimum or to soften a statementthe leastthe smallest amount or degreeleast of allespecially not, particularly not

Synonyms

smallestminimumlowestminimal

Antonyms

mostmaximumgreatestlargest

Related Phrases

at leastphrase
used to indicate a minimum or to soften a statement
the leastphrase
the smallest amount or degree
least of allphrase
especially not, particularly not

💡Pro Tip

Adjective vs. Adverb

As an adjective, 'least' modifies nouns (e.g., 'the least amount'). As an adverb, it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs (e.g., 'she cared least').

⚡Gold Rule

Superlative Form

'Least' is the superlative form of 'little' and 'less'. It is used to indicate the smallest degree or quantity.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'leste', from Old English 'lǣst', superlative of 'lǣs' (less).

📝Usage Notes

Can function as an adjective, determiner, or adverb. Often used with 'the' to indicate the smallest degree or quantity.

Word Breakdown

least
smallest in size, amount, or importance
root
English Dictionary

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