“Express appreciation for someone’s input with fresh and considerate phrases!”
When it comes to highlighting something important or someone special in your communication, it’s essential to choose the right words. The phrase “Last but not least” is commonly used to give emphasis to the final item or person on a list. However, using varied alternatives can make your communication more dynamic and engaging. These alternatives can help you avoid repetition and tailor your message to suit different contexts, whether formal or informal.
In this article, we will explore various ways to express “Last but not least” that can add depth and warmth to your speech or writing. By incorporating a diverse set of expressions, you can show respect, enthusiasm, and appreciation, all while keeping your message fresh and interesting.
Our focus is to provide you with alternatives that are not only effective but also considerate of your audience. Whether you’re speaking in a professional setting, casual conversation, or writing a personal note, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your messages engaging and respectful.
1. “Finally, but importantly”
This phrase works well when you want to emphasize the significance of the last point or person while signaling that it’s still important to acknowledge them.
Scenario:
In a team meeting, you might say, “Finally, but importantly, I’d like to acknowledge John for his efforts in this project.”
Example 1:
“Finally, but importantly, let’s recognize Sarah for her dedication to the marketing campaign.”
Example 2:
“Finally, but importantly, we should thank Tom for his consistent hard work over the past year.”
Explanation:
This phrase adds emphasis without sounding overly repetitive. It also softens the phrase “last” by focusing on the importance of the person or item in question.
2. “To wrap up”
A versatile alternative often used to bring closure to a discussion, yet still highlighting the last item with respect.
Scenario:
When concluding a presentation, you might say, “To wrap up, I’d like to give a round of applause to everyone involved.”
Example 1:
“To wrap up today’s discussion, let’s hear from Jane, who has some final thoughts.”
Example 2:
“To wrap up this meeting, we’ll address any last questions and thank everyone for their contributions.”
Explanation:
This expression signals closure, yet it still conveys that the last point or person is deserving of attention. It’s professional and adaptable to various contexts.
3. “In conclusion”
Commonly used at the end of formal speeches or presentations to indicate that the next point is the final one, while still emphasizing its importance.
Scenario:
In a formal setting, you might close a meeting with, “In conclusion, I’d like to thank everyone for their time and effort.”
Example 1:
“In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who helped bring this project to fruition.”
Example 2:
“In conclusion, I appreciate everyone’s commitment to making this event a success.”
Explanation:
This is a formal way to wrap things up while still providing importance to the final subject. It’s respectful and ensures the final point gets the attention it deserves.
4. “Not to be forgotten”
This alternative emphasizes that the last item or person should be remembered, even if they are being mentioned last.
Scenario:
You might use this in a thank-you speech to acknowledge someone special at the end. “Not to be forgotten, I’d like to thank our lead designer for her amazing work.”
Example 1:
“Not to be forgotten, I want to recognize Mark for his incredible contribution to this project.”
Example 2:
“Not to be forgotten, we appreciate Anna for her support during the entire process.”
Explanation:
This phrase gives importance to the last person or item, while still conveying respect and appreciation. It ensures that they are remembered, even if mentioned last.
5. “As a final note”
This phrase is commonly used to introduce the last point, especially when concluding a speech or presentation, signaling that it’s just as important as the other points.
Scenario:
After a meeting, you might say, “As a final note, I want to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the project.”
Example 1:
“As a final note, I’d like to emphasize how crucial your feedback is to the improvement of our services.”
Example 2:
“As a final note, let’s not forget to acknowledge the efforts of the entire team in completing the task ahead of schedule.”
Explanation:
This expression highlights the final point while maintaining its importance. It shows that while it may be last, it still deserves attention.
6. “In closing”
Often used in formal contexts, this phrase signifies that you’re approaching the end but still want to make an important final statement.
Scenario:
In a formal presentation, you might conclude with, “In closing, I would like to thank our sponsors for their ongoing support.”
Example 1:
“In closing, I’d like to mention how much we appreciate the dedication of our volunteers.”
Example 2:
“In closing, we want to acknowledge the unwavering support of our clients throughout this project.”
Explanation:
This phrase gives the final item the same level of importance as the rest of the discussion, allowing for a smooth transition to the conclusion.
7. “To conclude”
Simple and direct, this alternative works perfectly when signaling that you are about to finish but want to ensure the final point is acknowledged.
Scenario:
At the end of a presentation, you might say, “To conclude, I want to thank you all for your time and valuable input.”
Example 1:
“To conclude, we should take a moment to recognize the hard work of the design team.”
Example 2:
“To conclude, let’s give credit where it’s due to everyone who helped in organizing today’s event.”
Explanation:
“To conclude” is straightforward and ensures that your audience knows that the last point is coming but remains important.
8. “Before we finish”
This is a casual, approachable alternative that can be used in both formal and informal settings to highlight the importance of the final point or person.
Scenario:
Before wrapping up a conversation, you might say, “Before we finish, I want to mention how grateful I am for all your hard work.”
Example 1:
“Before we finish, I’d like to thank everyone for their support in making this project a success.”
Example 2:
“Before we finish, let’s take a moment to give a shout-out to Emily for her dedication.”
Explanation:
“Before we finish” brings attention to the final point or individual and ensures they’re not overlooked, even though it’s the last item discussed.
9. “At last”
This is a direct alternative, often used in both casual and formal settings, to highlight the final person or item, giving it importance.
Scenario:
In a concluding speech, you might say, “At last, I’d like to thank the team for their continuous support throughout this project.”
Example 1:
“At last, let’s give credit to the people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.”
Example 2:
“At last, I would like to recognize the contributions of everyone who helped make this event a success.”
Explanation:
“At last” brings the focus to the final person or thing, giving it an assertive tone and ensuring it’s highlighted with importance.
10. “As the last point”
This phrase is effective in both formal and informal contexts, ensuring that the last point is recognized while still giving it the proper emphasis.
Scenario:
In a meeting, you could say, “As the last point, I want to mention how important collaboration was in this process.”
Example 1:
“As the last point, we can’t forget to mention the efforts of our volunteers.”
Example 2:
“As the last point, I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to today’s discussion.”
Explanation:
By using “as the last point,” you’re giving notice that this is the final item, but it’s just as significant as all the preceding ones.
11. “To finish up”
A more informal phrase, “To finish up” signals that the conversation is coming to a close but ensures that the last item or person is highlighted.
Scenario:
At the end of a casual meeting, you might say, “To finish up, let’s take a moment to recognize Sara for her contributions.”
Example 1:
“To finish up, I’d like to give a special mention to our project manager for her leadership.”
Example 2:
“To finish up, we can’t forget to acknowledge the dedication of our support staff.”
Explanation:
This phrase is friendly and approachable, ideal for informal settings where you want to wrap up while giving a final important mention.
12. “As a last remark”
This phrase is often used when you want to leave a final thought or idea, ensuring it gets due attention before concluding.
Scenario:
Before leaving a meeting, you might say, “As a last remark, I want to thank all of you for your hard work.”
Example 1:
“As a last remark, let’s appreciate the collaborative spirit that helped us achieve our goal.”
Example 2:
“As a last remark, I want to express my gratitude to the volunteers for their time and effort.”
Explanation:
“As a last remark” provides a formal way to express your final thoughts, showing that the last point is equally important.
13. “Before we wrap up”
A casual alternative that signals you’re nearing the end but want to ensure the last point is heard and appreciated.
Scenario:
Before closing a discussion, you might say, “Before we wrap up, I want to thank the entire team for their support.”
Example 1:
“Before we wrap up, let’s all acknowledge the great effort of the marketing team.”
Example 2:
“Before we wrap up, let’s express our thanks to everyone who helped make this event a success.”
Explanation:
This phrase gives a sense of closure while still ensuring that the final acknowledgment or statement is made.
Other Ways to Say Looking Forward to It
14. “Just to conclude”
This phrase serves as a light way to signal that you’re at the end but that the last item deserves recognition.
Scenario:
At the end of a presentation, you might say, “Just to conclude, I want to thank each of you for your valuable input today.”
Example 1:
“Just to conclude, I’d like to highlight the efforts of our customer service team.”
Example 2:
“Just to conclude, let’s not forget to thank the sponsors for their continued support.”
Explanation:
This phrase allows for a gentle yet important reminder of the final point, ensuring it is still given the attention it deserves.
15. “To bring this to a close”
An effective phrase to indicate the meeting or discussion is wrapping up while making the final point clear and important.
Scenario:
In a formal business meeting, you might say, “To bring this to a close, I want to thank everyone for their hard work.”
Example 1:
“To bring this to a close, I want to extend my appreciation to the project team.”
Example 2:
“To bring this to a close, let’s take a moment to thank those who worked behind the scenes.”
Explanation:
This phrase conveys that the conversation is nearing its end, but it still gives respect to the final person or point being acknowledged.
16. “In the final analysis”
This is a formal alternative that signals you are about to make the last point, which is as important as the others.
Scenario:
Before concluding a formal report, you might say, “In the final analysis, we should give credit to everyone who worked so hard on this project.”
Example 1:
“In the final analysis, we appreciate all the hard work put in by our research and development team.”
Example 2:
“In the final analysis, I want to express my gratitude to all the volunteers who supported our mission.”
Explanation:
This phrase is used in professional settings, adding formality and emphasizing that the last point deserves equal recognition.
17. “To sum up”
A widely used expression for concluding a discussion while still ensuring the last point is given importance.
Scenario:
At the end of a discussion, you could say, “To sum up, let’s thank our clients for their continuous trust and support.”
Example 1:
“To sum up, I’d like to acknowledge the team for their dedication in meeting the deadline.”
Example 2:
“To sum up, let’s remember to appreciate those who contributed their time and energy to this cause.”
Explanation:
“To sum up” works well for wrapping things up but also directs attention to the final point or person.
18. “As we close”
This phrase indicates that the conversation is nearing its end but still places emphasis on the last point.
Scenario:
As a formal thank you, you could say, “As we close, let’s all extend our thanks to the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.”
Example 1:
“As we close, I’d like to recognize how crucial this team’s efforts have been in reaching our goals.”
Example 2:
“As we close, we want to express our gratitude to all contributors who made this event possible.”
Explanation:
This phrase is perfect for formal or semi-formal settings and ensures that the final point or individual gets proper recognition.
19. “Last but definitely not least”
This variation of “last but not least” is a bit more emphatic, reinforcing that the last point is as valuable as the others.
Scenario:
In a speech, you might say, “Last but definitely not least, let’s recognize the effort put in by the marketing department.”
Example 1:
“Last but definitely not least, I want to express my deep gratitude to our clients for their trust in our services.”
Example 2:
“Last but definitely not least, we must thank our leadership team for guiding us through this process.”
Explanation:
This phrase highlights the importance of the last person or item, ensuring it stands out as much as the rest.
20. “In closing remarks”
A slightly more formal way to introduce the final point while still showing its importance.
Scenario:
During a meeting, you might say, “In closing remarks, I want to thank everyone involved for their support.”
Example 1:
“In closing remarks, I’d like to acknowledge the work of our event coordinators.”
Example 2:
“In closing remarks, let’s all take a moment to thank our partners for their continued collaboration.”
Explanation:
This phrase adds a formal touch while drawing attention to the final point, ensuring it gets the acknowledgment it deserves.
21. “To conclude with”
This phrase is often used in formal contexts to wrap up while making sure the last point is valued and recognized.
Scenario:
In a formal meeting, you could say, “To conclude with, I’d like to recognize the tireless work of our administrative team.”
Example 1:
“To conclude with, I want to express my gratitude to our volunteers for their outstanding support.”
Example 2:
“To conclude with, let’s thank our project manager for her exceptional leadership.”
Explanation:
This is an effective phrase for formal settings where you want to leave a lasting impression by acknowledging someone or something important at the end.
22. “To finalize”
“To finalize” is typically used when you’re about to wrap up and emphasize a significant point or individual as part of the closing remarks.
Scenario:
Before wrapping up a presentation, you might say, “To finalize, I would like to extend my thanks to everyone who contributed to the project’s success.”
Example 1:
“To finalize, I want to give credit to our research team for their invaluable input.”
Example 2:
“To finalize, we must acknowledge the efforts of our design department in making this campaign a success.”
Explanation:
This phrase signals the conclusion while still ensuring that the last point is given due recognition.
23. “In conclusion”
A well-known phrase that indicates the end of a discussion while stressing the importance of the final point or individual.
Scenario:
When closing a meeting, you might say, “In conclusion, I’d like to thank all the teams involved in making this initiative successful.”
Example 1:
“In conclusion, I want to emphasize the importance of teamwork in achieving our shared goals.”
Example 2:
“In conclusion, I would like to give a special shout-out to the volunteers who helped make this event a success.”
Explanation:
This phrase is widely used to conclude speeches, meetings, or presentations and emphasizes the significance of the closing statement or person.
24. “Let’s wrap up by”
This phrase helps to bring the conversation to a close while still giving a final acknowledgment.
Scenario:
In a team meeting, you might say, “Let’s wrap up by recognizing the efforts of our IT department for making sure everything ran smoothly.”
Example 1:
“Let’s wrap up by thanking our partners for their continued collaboration.”
Example 2:
“Let’s wrap up by recognizing the exceptional contributions of our project team.”
Explanation:
It’s a friendly, conversational way to signal the end while giving the last acknowledgment its due attention.
25. “To bring to a close”
This phrase indicates you are nearing the end of your discussion but still want to highlight the final, important point.
Scenario:
At the end of a presentation, you could say, “To bring to a close, I would like to thank everyone for their active participation.”
Example 1:
“To bring to a close, let’s all give a round of applause to our volunteers.”
Example 2:
“To bring to a close, we must express our deepest gratitude to our leadership team.”
Explanation:
“To bring to a close” allows for a formal tone while recognizing the final message or contribution.
26. “To wind up”
A more informal way to wrap up a discussion, signaling that the last point is just as important as the first.
Scenario:
As a casual meeting wraps up, you might say, “To wind up, let’s thank our customer service team for their incredible work this quarter.”
Example 1:
“To wind up, I want to appreciate everyone who helped with organizing the event.”
Example 2:
“To wind up, let’s express our gratitude to our clients for their continued loyalty.”
Explanation:
This phrase is lighthearted and informal, making it suitable for more relaxed settings while still giving the final acknowledgment its due.
27. “Before we go”
A very casual phrase, useful in more informal settings when you are ready to finish but want to make sure everyone is recognized.
Scenario:
Before leaving a casual meeting, you might say, “Before we go, let’s all give a round of applause to the volunteers who made this event possible.”
Example 1:
“Before we go, let’s thank everyone who helped in the preparations.”
Example 2:
“Before we go, I’d like to acknowledge the leadership team for their efforts.”
Explanation:
This phrase is friendly and easygoing, perfect for informal or social gatherings.
28. “In the end”
This phrase is often used when you want to stress the final point or person after everything else has been discussed.
Scenario:
At the conclusion of a discussion, you could say, “In the end, it’s important to acknowledge the role of our volunteers in this project.”
Example 1:
“In the end, we can all agree that the success of this event is due to the hard work of the team.”
Example 2:
“In the end, let’s appreciate the effort of our sponsors for making this all possible.”
Explanation:
This phrase places emphasis on the conclusion, giving the last point or person a sense of importance.
29. “To close off”
A casual and friendly way to signal the end of a conversation while still providing recognition to the final point.
Scenario:
Before closing a discussion, you might say, “To close off, let’s thank our support staff for their dedication.”
Example 1:
“To close off, I want to recognize the amazing teamwork we’ve seen today.”
Example 2:
“To close off, let’s take a moment to appreciate our community partners.”
Explanation:
“To close off” is lighthearted and gives a sense of warmth while still making sure the final point is recognized.
30. “Finally”
A very direct phrase that highlights that the final point is about to be mentioned, often used in both formal and informal settings.
Scenario:
In a meeting, you could say, “Finally, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who made this project a success.”
Example 1:
“Finally, let’s take a moment to thank our clients for their trust and partnership.”
Example 2:
“Finally, I’d like to acknowledge the efforts of all our volunteers.”
Explanation:
“Finally” is a straightforward way to signal that you’re concluding and also stressing the importance of the final point.
Why is it important to use varied phrases for saying ‘Last but not least’?
Using varied phrases helps keep communication fresh and dynamic. It allows you to tailor your message to the context—formal or informal—and prevents repetition. Different expressions ensure that your message resonates with the audience and keeps them engaged. By choosing an appropriate phrase, you can also convey the right tone, making your message more effective and appreciated.
Key Insight
1. Can I use “Last but not least” in formal emails?
Yes, “Last but not least” can be used in formal emails, but it’s important to consider the tone of the email. In formal settings, alternatives like “To conclude,” “Finally,” or “In closing” might be more appropriate for maintaining professionalism.
2. Is “Last but not least” suitable for casual conversations?
Absolutely! It’s commonly used in casual conversations and presentations. It helps emphasize that the last point or person is just as important as the others.
3. Can I use “Last but not least” for important points?
Yes, “Last but not least” is often used to draw attention to an important point or person, indicating that it deserves the same level of attention as the previous ones.
4. Are there any alternatives to “Last but not least” in speeches?
Yes, alternatives such as “Finally,” “To finish up,” “In conclusion,” and “Before we close” are commonly used in speeches to give emphasis to the last point.
5. Should I avoid using “Last but not least” in professional settings?
It depends on the context. In professional settings, you may want to use more formal alternatives like “To conclude” or “In closing.” However, it’s generally fine in most business meetings or when giving presentations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to effectively say “Last but not least” or use its alternatives adds variety to your communication. When in casual conversations, professional meetings, or speeches, these phrases allow you to show respect and ensure the last point or person gets the attention they deserve. By mastering these variations, you not only improve your speaking and writing skills but also keep your communication engaging and respectful.
Hi! I’m Jane Austen, the author of Grammar Glides. I make English learning simple and fun, helping you master grammar with ease!
