少なくとも
sukunakutomo[sɨkɯ̟na̠kɯ̟to̞mo̞]
The English phrase "at least" can be translated into Japanese as 少なくとも (sukunakutomo) or せめて.
Meaning: at a lower limit (prep_phrase)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 少なくとも | sukunakutomo | [sɨkɯ̟na̠kɯ̟to̞mo̞] (narrow) |
| せめて | semete | [se̞me̞te̞] (narrow) |
少なくとも is used to state a factual lower limit or a minimum numerical value. せめて is frequently used in sentences expressing a request or a regretful wish, such as 'At least tell me the truth'.
Which one should you use?
In contrast, せめて is frequently used in sentences expressing a request or a regretful wish.
How do you pronounce it?
sukunakutomo
Did you know?
- In Japanese, if you want to say 'at least' in a purely mathematical sense, you might use 最低 (saitei) for 'the lowest', but be careful as this word also means 'the worst' in social contexts.
- If you use the word せめて to express a wish, it often implies that the speaker has already given up on achieving their main goal.
- The kanji for 少なくとも includes 少 (sukunai), which means 'few' or 'little', linking the concept of a minimum directly to the concept of scarcity.
Examples in context
- せめてヒントをくれよ。At least give me a hint.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of せめて in a request.Tatoeba #11344699 by bunbuku, translation #9440343 by sundown
- 少なくとも仕事は済んだよ。At least the work is done.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of 少なくとも regarding a completed task.Tatoeba #8505150 by small_snow, translation #8489002 by AlanF_US
- 少なくとも２人が死亡した。At least two people perished.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of 少なくとも when stating a numerical minimum.Tatoeba #11137909 by small_snow, translation #9763507 by AlanF_US
- せめて10分前に来てください。Please come at least 10 minutes early.
- 少なくとも一週間の予告が必要です。At least one week's notice is required.
- 今日はせめて早く帰りたい。I want to go home early today, at least.
- 少なくとも三人が必要だよ。We need at least three people.
- 79 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Yui and Ren are talking about a restaurant's popularity.
- 結衣 Yui少なくとも一時間は並ぶと思うよ。Sukunakutomo ichijikan wa narabu to omou yo.I think we'll have to wait for at least an hour.
- 蓮 Renそんなに混んでいるの？Sonna ni konde iru no?Is it that crowded?
- 結衣 Yuiうん、人気があるからね。Un, ninki ga aru kara ne.Yeah, because it's popular.
- 蓮 Renじゃあ、別の店にしよう。Jaa, betsu no mise ni shiyou.Then, let's go to a different shop.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “at least” translations and entries 少なくとも, せめて, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
