At the latest Meaning in English
expression
ˈæt/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɫeɪtəst
AT thuh LAY-tuhst
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 tardarPortuguese (BR): no máximo - até o mais tardarPortuguese (PT): no máximo - o mais tardarChinese (Simplified): 最迟 - 最晚Chinese (Traditional): 最遲 - 最晚Hindi: अंतिम समय तक - अधिकतम देर सेArabic: في أقصى تقدير - بحد أقصىBengali: সবচেয়ে দেরিতে - সর্বশেষেRussian: не позднееJapanese: 遅くともVietnamese: chậm nhấtKorean: 늦어도Turkish: en geçUrdu: زیادہ سے زیادہ تاخیر سے - آخری وقت تکIndonesian: 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