spätestens

at the latest

adverb SHPAE-tes-tens Rare

Usage Note

spätestens sets an upper time limit: the event must occur by the stated time. Extremely common in contracts, deadlines, and everyday planning: spätestens bis Montag ('by Monday at the latest'). It is the counterpart of frühestens and an essential word for any B1+ learner.

Examples

"Der Bericht muss spätestens bis Freitagmittag eingereicht werden."

Natural Translation

The report must be submitted by Friday midday at the latest.

Literal Translation

The report must at-the-latest until Friday-midday be submitted.

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