por lo menos
Lemma Details
Translation: at least; at the very least; at minimum
Part of Speech: adverbial phrase
Etymology: This adverbial phrase is composed of three elements: 'por' (for/by), 'lo' (the, neuter article), and 'menos' (less). The construction literally means 'for the less' or 'by the less', which evolved to express the concept of a minimum quantity or degree. The English equivalent 'at least' follows a similar conceptual pattern of indicating a minimum threshold.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Necesito por lo menos dos horas para terminar este trabajo.
I need at least two hours to finish this work.
Deberías llamar a tus padres por lo menos una vez a la semana.
You should call your parents at least once a week.
Por lo menos no está lloviendo.
At least it's not raining.
Dame por lo menos una razón para quedarme.
Give me at least one reason to stay.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'por lo menos' as setting a floor or minimum - 'por' (for) 'lo menos' (the least amount).
- Remember that 'menos' means 'less' - so this phrase is about the 'less' end of a spectrum, i.e., the minimum.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is extremely common in everyday Spanish conversation and writing. It's used to establish minimum expectations or to make statements less absolute. In some contexts, it can also be used to soften requests or suggestions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'al menos' and 'por lo menos' are synonyms and can be used interchangeably in most contexts, 'por lo menos' is slightly more emphatic and common in spoken language, while 'al menos' might be perceived as slightly more formal or literary in some regions.
Notes: Both phrases are completely acceptable in most contexts, and the choice between them often comes down to regional preference or personal style.
Mnemonic: 'Por lo menos' is longer, so it gives more emphasis to the minimum.
Explanation: 'Por lo menos' indicates a minimum (at least), while 'a lo sumo' indicates a maximum (at most). They express opposite concepts.
Notes: These phrases establish the lower and upper bounds of a range, respectively.
Mnemonic: 'Menos' in 'por lo menos' means 'less' (minimum), while 'sumo' in 'a lo sumo' relates to 'sum' or totality (maximum).