adverb
at the latest, no later than
B1
Spätestens: temporal adverb meaning 'at the latest' or 'no later than'. Used to set a deadline, as in 'spätestens um 17 Uhr' («by 5 pm»). Typically appears near time expressions; not reflexive or conjugated. Emphasizes final permissible time, often in commands, appointments, or deadlines.
Examples
Du musst spätestens morgen antworten.
You must reply no later than tomorrow.
Komm spätestens um acht zur Party.
Be at the party by eight at the latest.
Der Vortrag endete später als geplant, sodass die Zuhörer spätestens um halb elf den Saal verließen.
The lecture ended later than planned, so the listeners left the hall at the latest by half past ten.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture a deadline line labelled 'spätestens' marking the last acceptable moment
Think 'spate' (late) + 'est' — 'spätestens' means the latest point in time
Notes
spätestens is used to set a final deadline. It emphasizes the latest acceptable time; anything earlier is also fine. Common in scheduling and appointments.