menos
/ˈmenos/
The English word 'least' is translated into Spanish as menos. Wiktionary also lists lo más mínimo.
Meaning: in a degree below all others, in the lowest or smallest degree (adv)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| menos | /ˈmenos/ |
| lo más mínimo | /lo mas minimo/ (from spelling rules) |
The word menos is the standard adverb used to describe something in a degree below all others or in the lowest or smallest degree. To express the idiomatic phrase 'at least' (meaning 'at any rate' or 'at the very least'), Spanish speakers commonly use the phrases al menos or por lo menos, which can be used interchangeably in most contexts.
Which one should you use?
While menos is the standard adverb for 'least', the phrase lo más mínimo is used for emphasis to mean 'the slightest bit' or 'the very least'.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The related form mínimo is used as a determiner to mean 'smallest in amount or extent'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmenos/
Did you know?
- The English word 'master' and the Spanish word más share a common ancestor in the Latin word 'magis', which means 'more'.
- While menos means 'least', it is also used in Spanish as a mathematical term for 'minus' when performing subtraction.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, por lo menos can be used to soften a criticism or a piece of bad news to make it sound more acceptable.
Examples in context
- ¿Al menos lo sabías tú?Did you know it at least?This sentence shows how to use menos in a question regarding knowledge.Tatoeba #2741692 by Shishir, translation #12826083 by Yepthatscool
- ¡Al menos haz bien eso!At least do that right!This sentence demonstrates the use of menos in an imperative sentence.Tatoeba #3182454 by marcelostockle, translation #9154017 by rafaeldejesus8199
- Por lo menos sé sincero.At least be honest.This sentence shows how to use menos to suggest a minimum requirement for behavior.Tatoeba #9423755 by Shishir, translation #9418581 by shekitten
- Necesito comprar al menos dos kilos de manzanas.I need to buy at least two kilograms of apples.
- El equipo con menos puntos quedará eliminado.The team with the least points will be eliminated.
- Se requiere un nivel mínimo de experiencia para solicitar este trabajo.A minimum level of experience is required to apply for this job.
- No te preocupes, solo necesitas hacer el trabajo lo mínimo para aprobar.Don't worry, you only need to do the work at a minimal level to pass.
- Mi hermana solo ayuda en casa lo mínimo posible.My sister only helps around the house at the absolute minimum.
- 310 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and María are discussing their weekend plans.
- Javier¿Qué prefieres hacer este sábado?What do you prefer to do this Saturday?
- MaríaPrefiero el plan menos complicado.I prefer the least complicated plan.
- JavierEntonces, ¿nos quedamos en casa?So, shall we stay at home?
- MaríaSí, es la mejor idea.Yes, it is the best idea.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “least” translations and entries menos, lo más mínimo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lo, menos, más, mínimo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
