至少 (zhìshǎo) — at least; no less than

至少 (zhìshǎo)

至少 means "at least." It sets a minimum — the actual amount, frequency, or degree may be more, but it is guaranteed to be no less than what follows. It can modify numbers, time expressions, and frequency words.

Meanings

1. [adverb] At least; no less than; at a minimum — sets a lower bound on quantity, frequency, or degree.

Example Sentences

你至少要喝八杯水。 Nǐ zhìshǎo yào hē bā bēi shuǐ. You should drink at least eight glasses of water.

他至少需要三天才能完成这个任务。 Tā zhìshǎo xūyào sān tiān cái néng wánchéng zhège rènwù. He needs at least three days to complete this task.

这件衣服至少值五百块钱。 Zhè jiàn yīfu zhìshǎo zhí wǔbǎi kuài qián. This piece of clothing is worth at least five hundred yuan.

我每周至少锻炼三次。 Wǒ měi zhōu zhìshǎo duànliàn sān cì. I exercise at least three times a week.

Collocations

Memory Hook

至 means "to reach / to the extreme of." 少 means "few / little." 至少 = "reaching the extreme of few" — the absolute minimum you can accept.