at the latest — no later than a particular time; by a specified time at the very end
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: no later than a particular time; by a specified time at the very end
Pronunciation (IPA): /æt ðə ˈleɪtɪst/
Example Sentences
- You can sleep until noon at the latest, then we're going shopping whether you like it or not!
- The pizza will arrive by 7 PM at the latest, or it's free according to their guarantee.
- I need to leave for the airport by 3 AM at the latest to catch my flight.
at the latest
ADVERB[/æt ðə ˈleɪtɪst/]
no later than a particular time; by a specified time at the very end
Submit your report by Friday 5 PM at the latest, or it won't be accepted.
With the straightest arrow, win the greatest prize at the latest!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase 'at the latest' derives from Old English 'læt', meaning 'slow' or 'delayed'. The superlative form 'latest' developed to indicate the furthest point in time, and when combined with the preposition 'at', it came to mean 'no later than a specified time'.
Breakdown
late (Old English 'læt', meaning slow or delayed) + -est (superlative suffix indicating the most or furthest degree) + at (preposition indicating position in time).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“You can sleep until noon at the latest, then we're going shopping whether you like it or not!”
“The pizza will arrive by 7 PM at the latest, or it's free according to their guarantee.”
“I need to leave for the airport by 3 AM at the latest to catch my flight.”
“My mom said I can stay up until midnight at the latest, but she'll probably fall asleep first!”
📚Related Words
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