leastwise
/'li:stwaiz/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- At any rate; at the least; if nothing else: Used to introduce a statement that is true or relevant even if other considerations are ignored or are less favorable. It is an informal, somewhat old-fashioned word.
Usage Examples
- Adverb:
- The plan was flawed, but leastwise we tried.
- I don't know if it will work, but leastwise we have a starting point.
- He's not very experienced, but leastwise he's enthusiastic.
Advanced Usage
- "leastwise" as a discourse marker: Used to qualify or limit a previous statement, often introducing a positive point after a negative one.
- The food was cold, but leastwise it was free.
- Informal register: "Leastwise" is considered informal and somewhat colloquial. In more formal writing, "at least" or "at any rate" is generally preferred.
Variants and Related Words
- Leastways (adverb): A direct synonym with identical meaning and usage, also considered colloquial.
- I'm not sure I agree, but leastways I understand your point.
- At least (adverb phrase): The standard, more common equivalent.
- At any rate (adverb phrase): A common synonym, often used to change the subject or to emphasize a point.
Synonyms
- At least
- At any rate
- In any case
- Anyway
Notes on Different Meanings
- No other distinct meanings: "Leastwise" functions solely as an adverb with the meaning described. It is not used as a noun, adjective, or verb.
Related Idioms or Phrases
- While "leastwise" itself is not typically part of a larger idiom, it serves a similar function to the common phrase "if nothing else".
- The movie was boring, but if nothing else, the scenery was beautiful. (Compare to: The movie was boring, but leastwise the scenery was beautiful.)
Adverb
- if nothing else (`leastwise' is informal and `leastways' is colloquial)
- at least he survived
- they felt--at any rate Jim felt--relieved though still wary
- the influence of economists--or at any rate of economics--is far-reaching