"Last But Not Least" Meaning, Origin and Examples • 7ESL

Contents

This reference explores the phrase “last but not least,” examining its meaning, origins, and uses. You will discover examples of how this saying can be applied in conversation and alternative expressions that convey a similar idea. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive look at a common phrase used to highlight importance in various contexts.

Last But Not Least Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

“Last but not least” means that the final item or person mentioned is just as important as the others, even though it comes last in the list.

“Last But Not Least” Meaning

The phrase “last but not least” is used to emphasize that the final person or thing mentioned is just as important as the others that were mentioned before. Even though it’s listed last, it should not be considered less significant.

For example:

“I’d like to thank my family, friends, and, last but not least, my mentor for their support.”

In this context, the speaker is highlighting that although the mentor is mentioned last, they are equally important.

Origin of this Idiom

The term ‘last but not least’ was first recorded in the late 1500s by John lyly. The term was originally ‘last but least’ and was used to announce the final actor onto a stage.

Usage of “Last But Not Least”

In a speech: “We’ve discussed many key points today, but last but not least, let’s not forget the importance of teamwork.”
In a presentation: “We’ve covered the agenda for the day: budgeting, marketing strategies, and, last but not least, customer engagement.”
Acknowledging people: “I want to thank all the team members, and last but not least, a big thank you to our project manager.”

Related Terms to “Last But Not Least”

Finally – Used to introduce the last point, often emphasizing the conclusion.
In conclusion – Often used in formal writing or speeches to summarize or wrap up the main points.
And most importantly – Highlights the significance of the final point.
To top it all off – Used to indicate a final, often significant, point that enhances the preceding information.
Not to forget – Ensures the audience acknowledges the importance of the last mention.
As a final point – A formal way to introduce the last important detail.
Lastly – Simply introduces the last point or person.

Other Ways to Say the Phrase

There are other ways in which you can express the meaning of the term ‘last but not least.’

Here are some examples of other things you might say.

Last but by no means least
Save the best for last
Last but important

“Last But Not Least” Examples

Examples in Statements

This first statement is being made by someone hosting a talent show.

‘And last but not least, we have a comedian.’

Here is a statement being made by a mother to her son.

‘You have almost had all of your present, last but not least, a present from your Aunt.’

More helpful examples:

I would like to thank my publisher, my editor and, last but not least, my husband.
Last but not least, let me introduce Jane, our new secretary.
And, last but not least, its growth and production has a huge impact on the environment we live in.

Conversation Examples

If you are curious to see how the term ‘last but not least’ can be used in a conversation, here are some examples to show how it might sound.

The first conversation is between two friends.

Person 1: “I have some things for you.”
Person 2: “Oh, what do you have?”
Person 1: “I have a jacket, a skirt and last but not least, a pair of trousers.”

This conversation is taking place at a singing contest between the two hosts on stage.

Person 1: “That was a lovely song by Sarah.”
Person 2: “Yes, and we have one more act now, don’t we Bob.”
Person 1: “We certainly do, last but not least, please welcome Angela to the stage.”

About
Latest Posts

Liam Daniel

At 7ESL, we use advanced AI to help people learn English. Our tools and resources make it easier to speak and write well, supporting learners at every level.