Por lo menos
Example: Por lo menos necesito cinco minutos para terminar esto.
Definition
"Por lo menos" is an expression used to indicate a minimum quantity, amount, or degree, often implying that something should be done or required at least to that extent. For example, it can be used to say that you need 'at least' five minutes to finish something.
Etymology
The phrase "por lo menos" comes from Spanish, where 'por' means 'for' or 'by,' 'lo' is a neutral article corresponding to 'the,' and 'menos' means 'less.' Together, it literally translates as 'for the least,' which evolved to mean 'at least' or 'minimum.' Did you know that this idiomatic expression neatly summarizes the concept of a minimum threshold in everyday conversation?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Por lo menos" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (A2) - parte 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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