Meaning
Used to emphasize that the final item in a list is just as important as the ones before it.
Primary Function
Concluding listing marker with emphasis
Communicative Purpose
To ensure the last point in a list is given equal importance to the previous points
Pattern
last but not least
Core Structure
last but not least
Função primária
Concluding listing marker with emphasis
Propósito comunicativo
To ensure the last point in a list is given equal importance to the previous points
Situações de gatilho
Presentations, speeches, written lists, and conversations where multiple points are being made
Contextos
Formal and semi-formal contexts, including professional settings and formal writing
Padrão
last but not least
Estrutura central
last but not least
Slots de substituição
The variable part is the items in the list, which can be any points or ideas being discussed
Colocados típicos
- and
- also
- additionally
Substituições comuns
- finally
- lastly
- and most importantly
Erros comuns
Omitting 'not', using 'least' instead of 'last but not least', or forgetting the conjunction 'but'
Similar / contraste
finally, in conclusion, to summarize
Interferências
Learners may confuse 'last but not least' with 'finally' or 'lastly', which have similar but distinct uses
Família do chunk
- Listing / Emphasis connectors
Nuance
Adds a touch of formality and emphasizes the equal importance of all listed items
Efeito pragmático
Creates a sense of balance and completeness, signaling to the audience that all points are significant
Dica de memória
Last but not least, remember
Nota
This is a common phrase used to emphasize the equal importance of the final item in a list
Upgrade path
Finally → last but not least (more casual) or vice versa depending on register needs
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