last but not least
Meaning
Used to introduce the final person/thing in a list while emphasizing it is just as important as the others.
Origin
Often attributed to early modern English usage, including William Shakespeare’s phrasing in *King Lear* (“last, not least”), later settling into the common formula “last but not least” to stress equal importance of the final item.
Notes
A polite, often semi-formal set phrase used in speeches/presentations to introduce the final item while stressing it matters too. Can be used lightly or (rarely) sarcastically.
Examples
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I’d like to thank our sponsors, our volunteers, and last but not least, the audience for coming tonight.
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We toured the museum, grabbed lunch, and last but not least, visited the rooftop garden.
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Last but not least, please remember to submit your timesheet by Friday.
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She introduced her cofounders and, last but not least, her mentor who guided the whole project.
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We’ll cover the budget, the timeline, and last but not least, the risks involved.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase typically used as a sentence adverbial/transition: “And last but not least, …”. Commas are common. Variants like “last, but not least” occur, but the standard is “last but not least.”
Synonyms
- finally (and importantly)
- lastly (but importantly)
- not least
Antonyms
- first and foremost
- last and least