adverb
at least
A2
mindestens is an adverb meaning 'at least' (a minimum amount). Used before numbers, quantities or verbs to set a lower bound. Synonyms: at minimum. No reflexive form. It doesn't govern a case or preposition; it modifies whole phrases and contrasts with 'höchstens' (at most).
Examples
Da die Veranstaltung mindestens drei Stunden dauerte, organisierten die Mitarbeiter Pausen, die den Besuchern Erholung boten.
Since the event lasted at least three hours, the staff organized breaks that offered the visitors some rest.
Du brauchst mindestens zwei Stunden für die Aufgabe.
You need at least two hours for the task.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine a small bar with a marker that says 'min.' under it — the marker shows the lowest acceptable level.
sounds like 'mind' + 'tense' — think 'minimum' (mind-tense → minimum)
Notes
Commonly used to set minimum requirements or amounts. Often appears in measurements, times, and conditions.