last not least

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Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Adverb:
    • Used to introduce a final point that is equally important: This phrase is used to emphasize that the last item or person mentioned in a list is not less significant than the others that came before it. It signals that the concluding element deserves equal attention and consideration.
Usage
  • Position in a Sentence: "Last but not least" is typically used at the beginning of a clause to introduce the final item in a sequence.
  • Function: It serves as a transitional phrase to add a final, important point, ensuring the last item is not overlooked or undervalued.
Examples
  • Introducing a final speaker:
    • And last but not least, I'd like to thank our event organizers for their hard work.
  • Listing important factors:
    • We considered cost, efficiency, and last but not least, environmental impact.
  • Presenting team members:
    • Our project team includes Alex, Sam, and last but not least, Jordan, our lead designer.
Advanced Usage
  • "last but by no means least": A stronger variant that more forcefully asserts the importance of the final item.
    • Our sponsors are Company A, Company B, and last but by no means least, our community partners.
Variants and Related Phrases
  • Last but not least: The most common and standard form of the phrase.
  • And finally: A simpler, more neutral transitional phrase without the emphatic quality of "last but not least."
  • Not least: Can be used similarly within a sentence to give emphasis to a particular point.
    • Several factors contributed, not least the change in market conditions.
Synonyms
  • Finally, and importantly: Used to introduce a concluding significant point.
  • Last and equally important: A more literal paraphrase of the phrase's meaning.
Notes on Meaning

The phrase "last but not least" combines the idea of sequence ("last") with a negation of inferiority ("not least"). It is an idiomatic expression used to maintain the listener's or reader's attention until the end of a list by promising that the final item holds substantial value. It is a fixed expression, and the word order is not typically changed.

Adverb
  1. in addition to all the foregoing
    • last not least he plays the saxophone

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