At least means no less than, usually with a number or an amount: at least six months. It can also point out something positive in a bad situation: the train had gone, but at least the hotel was nearby.
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at least + number/amount; ..., but at least + clause; could at least + verb
- The course takes at least six months if you study twice a week.
- Please arrive at least fifteen minutes before your interview starts.
- We missed the last train, but at least the hotel was nearby.
What changed
First versionPlease call your grandmother even once a week.
RevisionPlease call your grandmother at least once a week.
Even can look like a way to set a minimum, but even means that something is surprising or more than expected. The sentence sounds as if calling once a week were a lot. A minimum is set with at least, so even was replaced with at least.
At last means finally, when something you have been waiting for happens: At last the bus came. At least adds comfort: The bus was late, but at least it came. In writing the two differ by one letter, so they are often confused.
Your turn
The drive to the lake takes ___ three hours, so bring some food and water.
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at least — Before a number you need at least: the drive will take no less than three hours, which is why you are told to bring food. At last means finally and doesn't go with an amount.
Describe a bad day on a trip or at work. Say what went wrong, then use at least to add something that was still good.
Our flight to Istanbul was delayed for five hours, but at least the airline gave us free lunch vouchers.
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