höchstens
at most
Expresses an upper limit; not more than a certain number, amount, or measure.
EXAMPLE
Die Reparatur wird höchstens 100 Euro kosten.
The repair will cost at most 100 euros.
höchstens
at most
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Meanings
höchstens
at best
Expresses a low probability or a final, often not ideal possibility; at best.
EXAMPLE
Wenn wir jetzt losfahren, kommen wir höchstens noch zum Ende der Vorstellung an.
If we leave now, we'll at best arrive in time for the end of the performance.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is formed from the superlative of 'hoch' (high), 'höchst-', and the ending '-ens'. This ending forms adverbs that describe an outermost limit or quality, as in 'bestens' (very well) or 'frühestens' (at the earliest).
EXAMPLE
Die Lieferung erfolgt schnellstens, spätestens aber in drei Tagen.
Delivery will take place as quickly as possible, but no later than in three days.
Sentence position
As an adverb, 'höchstens' can stand flexibly in the sentence. It often stands directly before the number or amount it limits. If it stands in position 1, the verb follows directly after it.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben höchstens noch 20 Euro.
We have at most 20 euros left.
Context clue
To distinguish the meanings, pay attention to the context. If 'höchstens' appears with a number or amount, it means 'not more than'. If it describes a possible but often unlikely result, it means 'at best'.
EXAMPLE
Das Paket wiegt höchstens zwei Kilogramm.
The package weighs at most two kilograms.
Compare with
höchstens vs allenfalls
at most / possibly
Höchstens and allenfalls can both express an upper limit. Höchstens states the maximum neutrally and directly. Allenfalls sounds more formal and can additionally present the stated limit as merely possible or generously conceded; for a simple quantity or time indication, höchstens is usually clearer.
höchstens
Die Fahrt dauert bei normalem Verkehr höchstens zwei Stunden.
With normal traffic, the journey takes at most two hours.
allenfalls
Selbst bei kleinen Verzögerungen dauert die Fahrt allenfalls zwei Stunden.
Even with minor delays, the journey will take at most two hours.
In real life
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