When wrapping up a list, presentation, or speech, we often want to emphasize the final item without diminishing its importance.
The phrase “last but not least” does exactly that—it highlights the final point while showing that it is equally significant.
However, using the same phrase repeatedly can sound repetitive, informal, or predictable. Knowing other ways to say “last but not least” helps you convey the same idea in varied, polished, and context-appropriate ways.
Whether you are speaking at a meeting, writing an email, or drafting a speech, the words you choose shape your tone.
Some alternatives sound formal and professional, while others are casual and friendly.
This guide explores 12+ alternatives to “last but not least,” complete with examples, usage notes, and tone guidance to help English learners and professionals sound confident, natural, and fluent.
What Does “Last but Not Least” Mean?
Definition:
The phrase “last but not least” is used to introduce the final item in a list while emphasizing that it is just as important as the previous items.
Grammar Note:
- Last → indicates the final position in a sequence
- But not least → emphasizes that the final item is not less important
Function:
It is often used in speeches, presentations, written lists, and conversations to ensure that the final element receives recognition and attention.
When to Use “Last but Not Least”
You can use this phrase in a variety of settings:
✔ Formal Contexts
- Business presentations
- Academic speeches
- Professional reports or emails
✔ Informal Contexts
- Casual conversations
- Social media posts
- Group discussions
✔ Written Use
- Emails and letters
- Articles or blog posts
- Lists and summaries
✔ Spoken Use
- Public speaking
- Team meetings
- Presentations
Is It Professional or Polite?
Yes. “Last but not least” is polite, respectful, and widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts.
- In professional settings: It works well in meetings, reports, or speeches, showing attention to detail.
- In casual settings: It can add friendly emphasis without sounding stiff.
However: Overusing it may reduce impact. Using alternatives can keep your language fresh and professional.
Pros and Cons of Using “Last but Not Least”
Pros
- Recognized and widely understood
- Polite and neutral tone
- Emphasizes the importance of the last item
- Works in both formal and informal contexts
Cons
- Overused, can sound repetitive
- Slightly informal for highly formal writing
- Limited creativity—alternatives may better fit tone or style
12 Alternative Phrases for “Last but Not Least”
Here are 12 alternatives with meanings, explanations, examples, and usage guidance:
1. Phrase: Finally
- Meaning: Signals the last item in a series.
- Explanation: Simple and formal; widely used in speeches and writing.
- Example: “Finally, I want to thank our volunteers for their hard work.”
- Best Use: Formal, Business, Casual
- Worst Use: Can feel abrupt in highly emotional contexts
- Tone: Neutral / Formal
2. Phrase: In Conclusion
- Meaning: Wraps up a list or discussion.
- Explanation: Often used in speeches or essays.
- Example: “In conclusion, our team’s achievements this year are impressive.”
- Best Use: Formal, Academic, Business
- Worst Use: Informal chats
- Tone: Formal / Neutral
3. Phrase: To Wrap Up
- Meaning: Signals the final point or summary.
- Explanation: Casual and friendly; common in conversations or presentations.
- Example: “To wrap up, let’s remember to thank everyone for their contributions.”
- Best Use: Informal, Casual, Semi-formal
- Worst Use: Highly formal reports
- Tone: Friendly / Neutral
4. Phrase: As a Final Point
- Meaning: Introduces the last item while emphasizing its significance.
- Explanation: Polished and professional; formal alternative.
- Example: “As a final point, we should consider the feedback from our clients.”
- Best Use: Formal, Business
- Worst Use: Casual text messages
- Tone: Formal / Neutral
5. Phrase: Last but Certainly Not Least
- Meaning: Emphasizes the importance of the final item.
- Explanation: Slightly more emphatic than the original phrase.
- Example: “Last but certainly not least, thank you to our sponsors.”
- Best Use: Formal, Semi-formal, Casual
- Worst Use: Extremely formal legal or academic writing
- Tone: Friendly / Emphatic
6. Phrase: Lastly
- Meaning: Marks the last item in a sequence.
- Explanation: Simple and professional; can be used in writing or speech.
- Example: “Lastly, let’s review the action items from today’s meeting.”
- Best Use: Formal, Business, Academic
- Worst Use: Overused in casual contexts
- Tone: Neutral / Formal
7. Phrase: To Finish Off
- Meaning: Signals the conclusion or last point.
- Explanation: Informal and conversational.
- Example: “To finish off, I’d like to share our new project plans.”
- Best Use: Informal, Casual
- Worst Use: Formal reports
- Tone: Friendly / Casual
8. Phrase: In the End
- Meaning: Refers to the final point or outcome.
- Explanation: Can be formal or casual depending on context.
- Example: “In the end, teamwork made all the difference.”
- Best Use: Formal, Informal
- Worst Use: Extremely brief or list-only contexts
- Tone: Neutral / Friendly
9. Phrase: To Close
- Meaning: Introduces the final comment or idea.
- Explanation: Professional, concise, and commonly used in meetings.
- Example: “To close, I want to acknowledge our partners’ support.”
- Best Use: Formal, Business
- Worst Use: Casual conversations
- Tone: Formal / Neutral
10. Phrase: In Summary
- Meaning: Summarizes points and introduces the last item.
- Explanation: Works in writing and presentations; emphasizes clarity.
- Example: “In summary, our key achievements include growth, engagement, and innovation.”
- Best Use: Formal, Academic, Business
- Worst Use: Informal chats
- Tone: Formal / Neutral
11. Phrase: Wrapping Things Up
- Meaning: Signals the end and highlights the last item.
- Explanation: Casual and friendly; used in speeches, blogs, or presentations.
- Example: “Wrapping things up, don’t forget to celebrate your team’s efforts.”
- Best Use: Informal, Semi-formal
- Worst Use: Strict formal writing
- Tone: Friendly / Neutral
12. Phrase: In Closing
- Meaning: Introduces the last remark or final point.
- Explanation: Polished and professional; works in speeches and letters.
- Example: “In closing, thank you all for your dedication and hard work.”
- Best Use: Formal, Business, Semi-formal
- Worst Use: Casual texts
- Tone: Formal / Neutral
Comparison Table of Top Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use | Worst Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finally | Neutral | Business, Casual, Formal | Highly emotional contexts |
| To Wrap Up | Friendly | Informal, Semi-formal | Legal or academic reports |
| As a Final Point | Formal | Business, Presentations | Text messages |
| Lastly | Neutral | Academic, Business | Overused in casual chats |
| In Closing | Formal | Speeches, Letters | Texts, Chats |
| Wrapping Things Up | Friendly | Informal, Semi-formal | Formal reports |
FAQs
Q1: Can “last but not least” be used in emails?
Yes, it works in both professional and personal emails to introduce a final point.
Q2: Which alternatives are best for casual conversations?
Phrases like “To wrap up” or “Wrapping things up” sound natural and friendly.
Q3: Are all alternatives suitable for formal speeches?
No. For formal speeches, phrases like “As a final point”, “In closing”, or “Finally” are most appropriate.
Q4: Can I use these phrases in blog posts?
Absolutely. Casual alternatives like “To finish off” or “Wrapping things up” are reader-friendly.
Q5: Is it okay to use “last but certainly not least” instead of the original phrase?
Yes, it adds a slightly stronger emphasis and is suitable in semi-formal to informal contexts.
Conclusion
Using alternatives to “last but not least” helps you sound versatile, confident, and fluent.
Whether you are giving a presentation, writing a blog, or sending an email, these phrases allow you to vary your language while maintaining clarity and emphasis.
Experiment with formal, neutral, and friendly alternatives to match your tone and context, making your communication more natural and polished.
David Jonson is an experienced English language writer who specializes in clear, practical, and learner-friendly content. He helps students and professionals improve their communication skills with confidence.