Do you want to know the best ways to refer to the last item or thing in a list?
Perhaps you’re concerned that “last but not least” is too unprofessional or insincere for your writing.
Well, you’ve come to the right place to learn a bit more!
This article will teach you what to say instead of “last but not least.”
Other Ways to Say “Last But Not Least”
- The final item on the list
- Bringing up the rear
- To wrap things up
- Finally
- Lastly
- In closing
- To sum up
- To conclude
- Ultimately
- Last in line
- The final point
- Last and certainly not least
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- “Last but not least” is correct to use when referring to the last item on a list.
- “The final item on the list” is a simple formal synonym to use as a replacement when mixing things up.
- Try “bringing up the rear” if you’d like something more informal that’ll help your writing to sound casual.
You should keep reading to learn how to say “last but not least” in an email or other written format. We’ve explained more regarding the best formal and informal alternatives above.
Also, the final section will explain whether it’s correct to say “last but not least.” So, feel free to skip ahead if you’d like to learn a bit more about that.
The Final Item on the List (Formal)
Feel free to use “the final item on the list” as another way to say “last but not least.” Of course, this one is more of a formal synonym that works quite well.
Generally, you could use something like this in academic writing or emails.
It’s professional and clear. So, it’s a good opportunity for you to complete a list and introduce one final piece to the equation.
Also, it doesn’t mention “not least” in the phrase like “last but not least” does. But, the implication is that the final point is still quite a relevant one for the reader.
So, the following sample emails should help you with it:
Dear Ben,
The final item on the list is this month’s targets.
Of course, most of that will be covered during the meeting.
Thank you so much,
Kyle Willis
Dear Mr. Jenkins,
The final item on the list is going to be something we all need to work on.
I’d like to meet with you privately to discuss more.
All the best,
Jonathan Wiley
Bringing up the Rear (Informal)
Going for something more informal, you could write “bringing up the rear.” This is a great way to be more casual when you’d like to draw something to a close.
For the most part, you can use this when writing to an employee.
It’s a good option that shows you’d like to tie up loose ends and introduce one final piece of information or advice.
Of course, it’ll work best in friendly capacities. So, make sure you have a good relationship with them.
Also, check out this email sample to learn more:
Hey Roger,
Bringing up the rear, we should talk about this project more directly.
I think it’s important for us to discuss this together.
Yours,
Stuart Gonzalves
It might also be worth using this informal phrase in essays. It’s a good option to throw a phrase like this in to help you sound less serious sometimes.
This essay sample will help you to understand it better:
And bringing up the rear, I have saved the most important information for you. I think it’ll be vital to look through this.
Is It Correct to Say “Last But Not Least”?
It is correct to say “last but not least.” It’s a phrase used to refer to the last item on a list without devaluing it.
However, it is informal. Therefore, it’s best to use it when delivering a speech or talking about people in your life when you don’t want the last person listed to feel left out.
It’s also a cliché. It’s overused and often unimaginative. So, it’s not always the best way to end a list.
Still, review this example to learn how to use “last but not least” in a sentence:
And last but not least, I owe all of this to my mother! Without her, I doubt I’d be here doing this today.
However, before using the phrase, you’ve got to ensure you know the correct wording.
Sometimes, people write “not the least.” But this is not correct, and it’s best to avoid doing so!
Check out the following examples to act as a reminder:
- Correct: Last but not least.
- Incorrect: Last but not the least.
Finally, bookmark this page to remind yourself of the best synonyms for “last but not least.” After all, you never know when they’re going to come in handy again for your writing!