at (the very) least

1. more exactly.

I can handle it – at least, I think I can.

The car was damaged, but at least no one was hurt.

Usage notes: often used to make a statement sound less strong

2. whatever happens.

At least Josh tried to apologize.

At the very least, you should call to tell me that you've arrived there safely.

Usage notes: the same meaning can be also expressed by come hell or high water, come what may, either way, in any case, and in any event

3. not less than.

At least 73,000 homes are without power in the Atlanta area.

The repair will cost $100 at the very least.

Usage notes: always used with a particular amount or measure:

At the least, the room is 30 feet long.

• when someone's back is turned
• when someone sneezes, someone catches a cold
• when someone sneezes, something catches a cold
• when someone was a mere twinkle in father's eye
• when someone was a mere twinkle in their father's eye
• when someone was a twinkle in father's eye
• when someone was a twinkle in their father's eye
• when something sneezes, someone catches a cold
• when something sneezes, something catches a cold
• When the cat's away .
• When the cat's away the mice will play.
• when the chips are down
• when the dust settles
• when the going gets rough
• when the going gets tough
• when the spirit moves
• when the spirit moves you
• when was a mere twinkle in father's eye
• when was a mere twinkle in their father's eye
• when was a twinkle in father's eye
• when was a twinkle in their father's eye
• when your ship comes in
• where is coming from
• where someone is coming from
• Where's the beef?