At the latest Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈæt/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɫeɪtəst

AT thuh LAY-tuhst

UK

ˈæt/ /ðə, ði/ /lˈeɪtəst

AT thuh LAY-tuhst

Definition

Said when giving the latest possible time that something should be done or will happen, meaning it must happen before or by this time.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal and informal communication, especially in deadlines. Usually follows a specific time or date: 'Please submit the form by Friday, at the latest.' Often used with 'by' or after a command/request.

• Spanish: como muy tarde - a más tardar
• Portuguese (BR): no máximo - até o mais tardar
• Portuguese (PT): no máximo - o mais tardar
• Chinese (Simplified): 最迟 - 最晚
• Chinese (Traditional): 最遲 - 最晚
• Hindi: अंतिम समय तक - अधिकतम देर से
• Arabic: في أقصى تقدير - بحد أقصى
• Bengali: সবচেয়ে দেরিতে - সর্বশেষে
• Russian: не позднее
• Japanese: 遅くとも
• Vietnamese: chậm nhất
• Korean: 늦어도
• Turkish: en geç
• Urdu: زیادہ سے زیادہ تاخیر سے - آخری وقت تک
• Indonesian: paling lambat

Example Sentences

Please return this book by Friday, at the latest.

basic

We must finish the project by noon, at the latest.

basic

The game will start at 8 o'clock at the latest.

basic

I'll be home by seven at the latest, so we can have dinner together.

natural

If you don't hear from me by tomorrow morning at the latest, give me a call.

natural

They promised to deliver the package by next Wednesday at the latest.

natural