Least: meaning, definitions and examples

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least

[liːst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a comparison

Smallest in amount, extent, or significance.

Synonyms

minimal, minimum, slightest, smallest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
least	Used to describe the smallest amount or degree in a general or non-quantitative sense, often in terms of importance or relevance. He was the least worried person in the room. Out of all these options, this one is the least appealing.
smallest	Used to describe the most reduced size or quantity of something, often in a measurable sense. This is the smallest room in the house. Even the smallest detail can make a big difference.
minimum	Used when referring to the lowest possible amount that is acceptable or necessary, often in a quantitative sense. You need a minimum of five years of experience for this job. The minimum age for voting is 18.
minimal	Used to describe the smallest possible amount, often in situations where precision or control over the quantity is implied. The project was completed with minimal effort. They kept the noise to a minimal level.
slightest	Used to denote a very small degree or amount, often when trying to be precise about a small difference. I don't have the slightest idea what you're talking about. He didn't show the slightest bit of interest.

Examples of usage

It was the least interesting movie I have ever seen.
She is the least helpful person on the team.
I have the least amount of experience in this field.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a comparison

To the smallest extent or degree.

Synonyms

barely, minimally, scarcely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
least	Used when comparing quantities or qualities to indicate the smallest amount or degree. Out of all the students, she has the least experience He scored the least points in the game
minimally	Used when describing something that is done to the smallest possible extent or degree. The project was minimally funded He answered the questions minimally, giving just the required information
barely	Used to indicate that something is almost not the case or almost doesn't happen. He barely finished his homework before the class She barely survived the accident
scarcely	Used to indicate that something happens or is true only just or almost not at all. There was scarcely enough food for everyone She could scarcely believe her eyes

Examples of usage

He cares about his appearance the least among his friends.
She sings the least of all the choir members.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

mathematics

The smallest or lowest in amount, extent, or significance.

Synonyms

lowest, minimum, smallest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
least	Also, for emphasizing a minimal degree in comparison within a specific set. He finished in the least time compared to others. She likes math the least.
minimum	Appropriate when referring to the smallest or lowest amount that is possible, required, or allowable. The minimum age to vote is 18. You need a minimum of five years of experience.
smallest	Preferable when talking about physical size or quantity being less than all others. She bought the smallest size available. He is the smallest in his family.
lowest	This term is often used to indicate the smallest possible amount, value, or level, usually in measurable terms. This is the lowest price for a flight. Her scores were the lowest in the class.

Examples of usage

She got the least out of all the donations.
The least of the numbers is 10.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Least' comes from Old English 'lǣst,' which means 'smallest' or 'fewest.'
The word has roots in Germanic languages, sharing similarities with words in Dutch and German that also mean 'little.'
It became commonly used in English around the 14th century to describe a minimum quantity.

Mathematics

In mathematics, 'least' is often used in terms such as 'least common multiple' or 'least common denominator.'
It plays a crucial role in set theory, where the 'least' element of a set is the smallest value under a defined order.
The concept of finding the 'least' is fundamental in optimization problems, often involving minimizing costs or maximizing efficiency.

Pop Culture

'Least' often appears in popular sayings, such as 'least of these' in religious contexts, highlighting humility or caring for the less fortunate.
The phrase 'the least you can do' is commonly used in conversations to express doing the minimum expected.
In literature and songs, characters often refer to their 'least' favorite things to convey preference or personal taste.

Psychology

Research suggests that when people think about their 'least' favorite activities, it can reveal personal dislikes or fears.
The concept of 'least' can influence decision-making, as individuals assess their options based on what they want to avoid.
Cognitive biases may lead people to perceive their 'least' favorite option as worse than it actually is, impacting their choices.

Education

'Least' is frequently used in assessment and grading, where students may strive to achieve 'at least' a certain score.
In comparative literature and essays, using 'least' allows for discussions on preferences, rankings, and evaluations of quality.
Teachers often encourage students to identify their 'least' favorite subjects to address difficulties and improve performance.

Translations

Translations of the word "least" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mínimo

🇮🇳 कम से कम

🇩🇪 am wenigsten

🇮🇩 paling sedikit

🇺🇦 найменше

🇵🇱 najmniej

🇯🇵 最も少ない (mottomo sukunai)

🇫🇷 le moins

🇪🇸 menos

🇹🇷 en az

🇰🇷 가장 적은 (gajang jeogeun)

🇸🇦 الأقل (al'aqall)

🇨🇿 nejméně

🇸🇰 najmenej

🇨🇳 最少 (zuì shǎo)

🇸🇮 najmanj

🇮🇸 minnst

🇰🇿 ең аз

🇬🇪 ყველაზე ნაკლები (k'velaze nak'lebi)

🇦🇿 ən az

🇲🇽 menos

Word Frequency Rank

With position #222, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.

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219 report
220 social
221 including
222 least
223 based
224 conditions
225 matter
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