MySQL LEAST() Function

The LEAST() function in MySQL is used to return the smallest (least) value from a list of arguments. It evaluates each argument and returns the one with the lowest value.

Syntax

LEAST(arg1, arg2, arg3, ...)

Definition and Usage

• The LEAST() function compares two or more values and returns the smallest value in the list.
• If any argument is NULL, the result will be NULL.
• The function works for numeric, string, and date types, but the comparison is done based on the data type and the values' order.

Parameter Values

Technical Details

• Works in: From MySQL 4.0
• Return Value: The smallest value from the list of arguments.

Examples

Example 1: Return the smallest value of a list of numbers

SELECT LEAST(3, 12, 34, 8, 25);

Result:

LEAST(3, 12, 34, 8, 25): 3

Explanation: The function returns 3, which is the smallest number in the list.

Example 2: Return the smallest value from a list of strings

SELECT LEAST("w3Schools.com", "microsoft.com", "apple.com");

Result:

LEAST("w3Schools.com", "microsoft.com", "apple.com"): "apple.com"

Explanation: The function compares the strings lexicographically (alphabetically) and returns "apple.com" as it comes first in alphabetical order.

Example 3: Return the smallest date value

SELECT LEAST('2024-12-01', '2024-12-15', '2024-12-10');

Result:

LEAST('2024-12-01', '2024-12-15', '2024-12-10'): '2024-12-01'

Explanation: The function returns '2024-12-01' as it is the earliest date.

Usage Notes

• The LEAST() function is useful for selecting the minimum value from multiple expressions or columns.
• When dealing with strings, it compares them in lexicographical order.
• For date values, the function returns the earliest date.
• If any argument is NULL, the result will be NULL, so it's often good practice to ensure that NULL values are handled properly using IFNULL() or COALESCE().

This function is commonly used for finding the smallest value in a set of values, such as finding the minimum salary, date, or number from a collection of records.