adverb
at least
A2
Means at least. Adverb of degree used to indicate minimum expectation or consolation (give a minimum amount). It commonly appears before verbs, nouns or at sentence end. Not reflexive or taking prepositions. Synonymous with zumindest; often softens negatives or offers a minimal alternative.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.EXAMPLES
Die Gäste blieben wenigstens bis zum Ende, obwohl das Konzert deutlich später begonnen hatte als geplant.
The guests stayed at least until the end even though the concert had started much later than planned.
Ich kann nicht kommen, aber wenigstens habe ich angerufen.
I can't come, but at least I called.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.DETAILS_LABEL
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.MNEMONICS
imagine a small coin left in a jar labeled 'wenigstens'
think 'weeny-gst' — the smallest acceptable amount
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.NOTES
Used to soften statements or indicate a minimal positive point.