せめて
せめて
adverb
at least; at the very least
1.
at least, at the very least
Expresses a minimum wish or expectation when the ideal outcome is not possible. Conveys the speaker's desire for at least a small consolation.
せめて名前だけでも教えてください。
Please at least tell me your name.
全部は無理でも、せめて半分は終わらせたい。
Even if I can't do it all, I want to at least finish half.
会えないなら、せめて電話で声だけでも聞かせてほしい。
If we can't meet, I'd at least like to hear your voice on the phone.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- せめて〜だけでも: at least just ...
- せめて〜くらい（は）: at least about ...
- せめて〜たい: I at least want to ...
USAGE: Expresses the minimum acceptable outcome when the speaker knows the ideal is impossible. Often paired with だけでも or くらい to emphasize the modesty of the request. Carries a sense of resignation mixed with hope.