It was the least he could do for her

Question

In a story, after a handshake between a man and a woman is portrayed, it goes...

"The polite handshake was the least he could do for her."

What does the above sentence mean/imply?
1. The handshake was a little thing, but the only thing he could do for her.
2. The handshake was the minimum thing that he did (could do) for her, and more things were to come.
3. Neither of the above.

Thanks.

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

The meaning is closer to 2. But I would add that maybe more things were to come. That's something that we can't be sure of.

The meaning may depend a little on context. It could mean that the speaker disapproved somewhat and was being critical because he (the speaker) felt that he (the handshaker) could have done more or should have done more.

Or it could mean that he (the handshaker) felt that he had to do something. He could not, without feeling guilty, just do nothing. He felt sorry for the woman. So he made the minimum gesture to show his feeling, but no more. The speaker may be being sympathetic to the man's confusion about what to do.

CJ

Handtalk · Answer

Thanks for the detailed comment, CalifJim.
I think I understand.

It seems the first example you provided, the man could/should have done more than just a handshake, is the case here for the story I am reading.
Thanks again.

It was the least he could do for her

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