last not least

Friendly

Explanation of "Last but not least"

Definition:
"Last but not least" is a phrase used to introduce the final item in a list, emphasizing that this item is just as important as the others mentioned before it. It shows that even though something comes last, it should not be overlooked or considered less significant.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "last but not least" when you are listing things or people and want to highlight that the final item is important.
• This phrase is often used in both spoken and written English.

Example:

1. "We have a great team here: John, Sarah, and last but not least, our wonderful manager, Mr. Smith."
2. "I want to thank my family, my friends, and last but not least, my supportive teachers."

Advanced Usage:

• It can be used in formal speeches, presentations, or casual conversations.
• It often precedes a summary or conclusion to reinforce the significance of the final point.

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "last but not least," but similar phrases like "finally" or "to conclude" can be used in certain contexts.

Different Meanings:

• The phrase itself does not have different meanings, but other parts of speech (like "last" or "least") have their own meanings:
  • Last: Referring to the final item in a sequence.
  • Least: Referring to the smallest amount or degree.

Synonyms:

• Finally
• In conclusion
• To sum up
• Not to forget

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While "last but not least" is a standalone phrase, it fits into the category of idiomatic expressions used to transition between points in a discussion.
• There are no phrasal verbs that directly correlate to "last but not least," but you can use phrases like "wrap things up" or "bring to a close" to signal the end of a list.

Summary:

"Last but not least" is a useful phrase when you want to make sure that the last item in a list is given the importance it deserves.

Academic

Adverb

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

Synonyms

• last but not least