Least

UK /["/liːst/"]/US /["/liːst/"]/

Definition

smallest in size, amount, degree, etc.

In simple words: the smallest amount or degree

Examples

She is the least experienced member of the team.
This is the least expensive item in the store.
Out of all the choices, this one is the least appealing.
He is the least likely to forget your birthday.
At the least, we should try to finish the project by next week.
She showed the least interest in the class activities.
In my opinion, that was the least thoughtful gift I received.
He has the least amount of time to complete the assignment.

Usage notes

Use 'least' when comparing more than two things. It’s not appropriate for singular comparisons. For example, say 'She is the least tall of all' instead of 'She is least tall'.

Grammar pattern

least + noun/adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'least' as 'less than the rest' — it sounds like 'least'.

Collocations

least amount
least favorite
least likely
at least
the least

Synonyms

minimal
smallest
lowest
slightest

Antonyms

most
greater

Common mistakes

Using 'least' incorrectly with only two items instead of 'less'
Confusing 'least' with 'most' when comparing attributes
Saying 'the least amount of' instead of the correct form