PhrasesHub

Last but not least

    Definitions

      • Importance
        To emphasize the significance of the final item or aspect being discussed, often used in a list or series

      • Equality
        To give equal attention or recognition to the last item or person in a group, often used when introducing someone or giving thanks

    Examples of Last but not least

    • The teacher passed out the exams, but she reminded the class that the last but not least question was worth double points.

      This idiom is used to emphasize that the last item on a list is just as important as the others. It's a way of saying that something may be last in order, but it shouldn't be overlooked or undervalued. In this example, the teacher is making sure that the students don't forget about the final question, which is worth twice as many points as the others.

    • At the end of the party, the hostess thanked all of her guests and said that the last but not least gift she received was a beautiful piece of jewelry.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used in a different context, such as thanking guests at the end of a party. The hostess is acknowledging that the last gift she received is just as important as the others, and she's expressing her gratitude for it.

    • The author's biography included a list of his achievements, and the publisher made sure to point out that the last but not least award he received was a prestigious literary prize.

      This example illustrates how the idiom can be used to highlight an important accomplishment or recognition. In this case, the publisher is emphasizing that the author's most recent award is just as significant as the others on his list.

    • The chef presented the menu to the customers, and he made a point of saying that the last but not least dish was a decadent chocolate dessert.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to build anticipation or excitement. The chef is letting his customers know that the final dish on the menu is a particularly indulgent dessert, and he's implying that it's worth saving room for.

    • The speaker began his presentation by reviewing the history of the company, and he ended by reminding the audience that the last but not least milestone they achieved was a major expansion into a new market.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used to provide a sense of closure or summary. The speaker is recapping the company's most significant accomplishments, and he's using the idiom to make sure that the audience doesn't overlook the most recent one.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "last but not least" is commonly used to highlight the importance or equal treatment of something or someone that may have been overlooked or forgotten. It is often used in a light-hearted or humorous manner, but can also be used in a serious tone to stress the significance of the final item or person being discussed.

    In terms of importance, the idiom is often used in a list or series to emphasize the significance of the last item or aspect being mentioned. This could be in a speech, presentation, or even a casual conversation. It is a way of making sure that the final point is not forgotten or disregarded.

    In terms of equality, the idiom is used to give equal attention or recognition to the last item or person in a group. This could be when introducing a group of people, thanking them, or even when distributing resources or opportunities. It is a way of showing that everyone or everything is valued and no one is left out.

    Origin of "Last but not least"

    The origin of the idiom "last but not least" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the 16th century. Some sources suggest that it may have originated from a Latin phrase, "ultimus sed non minimus," meaning "last but not least."

    The idiom gained popularity in English literature in the 19th century and has been used ever since in various contexts. It is a common phrase used in everyday language, and its origin continues to be debated among linguists and historians.

    Examples of the idiom being used in literature include Shakespeare's play "Henry VI, Part III," where one character says, "Last, but not least, in love, I do commend my cause to thee." This shows the use of the idiom to highlight the importance of a final point.