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Another common word in the English language we're gonna learn about is 'least'. Are you ready? Come on.
'Least' mainly functions as a determiner, an adjective, a pronoun, and an adverb. In this lesson, we are going to learn all about it.
Functions of 'Least'
'Least' as a Determiner
As stated above, 'least' can function as a determiner. Below, we are going to learn about the type of determiner it is:
Use
'Least' as a Quantifier
When 'least' is a determiner, it goes under the category of 'quantifiers'. As the name suggests,
'quantifiers' refer to the amount of something. We use 'least' to show that something in the slightest amount.
Look at the examples below:
The
Who has the
Position in a Sentence
Since 'least' is a determiner, it always comes before nouns to show the amount. Look at the following examples:
Jack has got the
They haven't got the
'Least' as a Pronoun
Use
As mentioned above, 'least' can function as a pronoun, too. It is used instead of a noun to show that something is of the least importance. Look at the following examples:
The
How can talking to your parents be the
Position in a Sentence
Since 'least' is a pronoun here, it replaces nouns and comes after determiners. Look at the following examples for more information:
The
You are of the
'Least' as an Adverb
As mentioned above, 'least' can function as an adverb, too. Below, we are going to learn about the type of adverb it is:
Use
'Least' as an Adverb of Degree
'Least' as an adverb shows the slightest amount. Look at the following examples:
She is the aunt I enjoy spending time with the
Going to therapy was the thing she thought about the
Position in a Sentence
Since adverbs are used to modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs, they mainly come after them. Look at the following examples:
Family is the one thing is would choose to be with on holidays the
My favorite hobby was the what I had time for the
Warning!
Note that since 'least' is the superlative form of 'little', it must come after a definite article.
'Least' as an Adjective
'Least' can also function as an adjective. Below, we are going to learn about the kind of adjective it is:
Use
'Least' as a Superlative Adjective
When we want to show the smallest amountor not important in comparison to two or more things, we use 'least'. It is the superlative adjective form of 'little'. Note that there must always be the definite article before it. Look at the following examples:
Sometimes, I think I'm
Didn't you say you wanted to have the
Position in a Sentence
Since 'least' is a superlative adjective, it mainly comes before the adjective it is modifying. Look below:
The
Let's consider the
Idioms and Expressions
We have several idioms and expressions with 'least'. Below, we are going to learn about them:
- At least: This one has several meanings: One is to show that someone should have done something, but they did not:
Couldn't she call me
- At least: Another meaning is to show the least positive point in a negative situation:
I know you're in pain, but
- Not in the least: When we want to show that we do not feel in a certain way, we use this one:
- Least said soonest mended: When we want to show that something bad will be forgotten sooner if people stop talking about it so much:
Hannah is still obsessing over her ex, which goes against the famous saying:
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