起
码

About

The word "起码" is formed by combining the character 起, meaning "to start" or "begin", with 码, meaning "weight" or "measure", originally referring to a counterweight on a scale. Literally, it signifies "starting from the weight", implying the lowest point on a scale, which evolved to express the concept of a minimum requirement or baseline, hence meaning "at least".

Example Sentences Hide

我起码要睡八小时。

Wǒ qǐmǎ yào shuì bā xiǎoshí.

I need to sleep at least eight hours.

他起码完成了作业。

Tā qǐmǎ wánchéng le zuòyè.

He at least finished his homework.

我们起码应该尊重别人。

Wǒmen qǐmǎ yīnggāi zūnzhòng biérén.

We should at least respect others.

如果你想去旅行，起码要存够钱。

Rúguǒ nǐ xiǎng qù lǚxíng, qǐmǎ yào cún gòu qián.

If you want to travel, you need to save enough money at least.

尽管情况很糟糕，但起码我们都安全。

Jǐnguǎn qíngkuàng hěn zāogāo, dàn qǐmǎ wǒmen dōu ānquán.

Although the situation is terrible, at least we are all safe.

Word Definition - 起码

qǐ mǎ at the minimum; at the very least

Individual Character Details

起 qǐ
码 mǎ