1.
at least, at the very least
Indicating the minimum amount, number, or extent.
少なくとも三十分はかかる。
It will take at least 30 minutes.
少なくとも一週間は必要だ。
At least one week is necessary.
少なくとも私はそう思う。
At least, that's what I think.
少なくとも expresses a minimum threshold.
FORMATION:
少ない (few, little) + く (adverb form) + とも (at least)
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 少なくとも: at least (neutral, formal)
- せめて: at least (implies desire for more)
- 最低でも: at minimum
USAGE NOTE:
少なくとも is often used for quantities, time, or to express a minimum opinion. It's more objective than せめて, which has an emotional nuance of wishing for more.