At best Meaning in English
expression
ˈæt/ /ˈbɛst
AT BEST
ˈæt/ /bˈɛst
AT BEST
Definition
Used to show that even in the most favorable situation, the result isn't great or is still limited.
Usage & Nuances
Usually adds a negative or realistic tone, suggesting that expectations should stay low. Often follows a statement or estimate. Don't confuse with 'at least', which offers a positive minimum.
Spanish: en el mejor de los casosPortuguese (BR): na melhor das hipótesesPortuguese (PT): na melhor das hipótesesChinese (Simplified): 充其量Chinese (Traditional): 充其量Hindi: सबसे अच्छा तो यहीArabic: في أفضل الأحوالBengali: সর্বোচ্চ - ভালো হলেRussian: в лучшем случаеJapanese: せいぜい - 良くてもVietnamese: tốt nhất là - cùng lắm làKorean: 기껏해야 - 잘해야Turkish: en iyi ihtimalleUrdu: بہترین صورت میںIndonesian: paling baik - paling maksimal
Example Sentences
The project will be finished in two weeks at best.
basic
He is an average student at best.
basic
Your chances of winning are low at best.
basic
The restaurant is okay, but it’s average at best.
natural
I’ll get five hours of sleep at best tonight.
natural
The weather will be cloudy at best for the picnic.
natural