at the most

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The phrase "at the most" is an adverbial expression used in English to mean "not more than" or "the highest amount." It indicates a limit or maximum number that is allowed or expected.

Simple Explanation:

When you say "at the most," you are telling someone the largest quantity or amount that is acceptable. It means you should not exceed that amount.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "at the most" when you want to express a maximum limit.
• It usually comes at the end of a sentence or clause.

Example:

• "You should spend at the most $20 on lunch." (This means you can spend $20 or less, but not more.)

Advanced Usage:

In more complex sentences, "at the most" can be used to set boundaries in various contexts, such as budgets, time, or quantities. - "We can only wait for her at the most 15 minutes before we leave." (This indicates that waiting longer than 15 minutes is not acceptable.)

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants, but similar phrases could include "at least" (which has an opposite meaning) or "no more than."

Different Meanings:

"At the most" has a specific meaning related to limits and does not have different meanings in different contexts.

Synonyms:

• "At most" (a shorter form)
• "No more than"
• "Maximum of"

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that include "at the most," but understanding related phrases can help: - "Push the limits" (to go beyond what is acceptable) - "Set a limit" (to define the maximum amount)

Summary:

"At the most" is a useful phrase for expressing maximum limits in spending, time, and other contexts.

Academic

Adverb

1. not more than
   • spend at most $20 on the lunch

Synonyms

• at most