wenigstens
Wenigstens is a German adverb meaning at least. It is used to indicate a minimum or lower bound in a statement, often with a tone of consolation, relief, or mild insistence. It can appear at the end of a clause or after the finite verb, as in “Es hat wenigstens nicht geregnet” or “Wir haben wenigstens noch Zeit.”
Etymology and form: Wenigstens is formed from the adjective wenig (little, few) with the adverbial suffix -stens,
Usage and nuance: Wenigstens is usually contrasted with mindestens and zumindest. Mindestens sets a numerical or
- Es hat wenigstens nicht geschneit.
- Wir haben wenigstens noch Zeit.