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