a last thought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a last thought" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express a final idea or reflection before concluding a discussion or piece of writing. Example: "Before we wrap up this meeting, I’d like to share a last thought on our project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A last thought.

The New York Times

GAIL A last thought about my convention obsession: they should be limited to one day.

The New York Times

The chauffeur offers a last thought: perhaps towns and streets and train stations are given names "in compensation for their fixity on the earth".

The New Yorker

A last thought: Reviewing the claims is almost always best left to a professional IP attorney.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Even though my son is an adult, my last thought at night is that I hope he is OK.

The Guardian

Mostly, it's unheard, largely because in Smyth's day, as she herself observed, "a critic's first and last thought in connection with a woman's work" — whatever virtues it possessed — was "her sex".

The New Yorker

Given this last thought, a natural prediction to make about how ultimatum games will go is the following.

SEP

The last thought on a despicable defense of a despicably violent act might be to wonder what van Gaal's view would have been had the boot been on the other ankle.

The New York Times - Sports

His last thought on a hypothetical Miami trade was this: "A trade of James might actually restore his popularity.

The New York Times - Sports

A few last thoughts.

TechCrunch

Williamson argues that this last thought is a mistake: in fact, one is not always in a position to correctly take into account one's experiences, even in principle.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a last thought" to introduce a concluding idea that summarizes or adds a final perspective to a discussion or piece of writing. It signals to the reader or listener that the end is near.

Common error

Avoid using "a last thought" to introduce a completely new or unrelated idea. Ensure it directly relates to the preceding content to maintain coherence and flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a last thought" functions as an introductory phrase or discourse marker. According to Ludwig, this phrase correctly introduces a final idea, reflection, or consideration before concluding a discussion or piece of writing, signaling the approaching end.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a last thought" is a phrase used to introduce a final consideration or idea, signaling the conclusion of a discussion or piece of writing. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While its frequency is relatively uncommon, it appears across various contexts, especially in news media and scientific publications. To enhance clarity, ensure it directly relates to the preceding content and offers a relevant final perspective. Consider "a final consideration" or "a concluding remark" as alternative phrases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a final consideration

Emphasizes the conclusive nature of the idea being presented.

a concluding remark

Focuses on the role of the thought as a closing statement.

one final point

Highlights the thought as a key item in a series of points.

a parting thought

Suggests a thought shared upon departure or conclusion.

my ultimate reflection

Implies a deep and considered thought.

in conclusion

A phrase that acts as a connector that indicates that a final thought or idea will be expressed.

as a final word

Presents the thought as the definitive statement on a topic.

one last thing

An idiomatic expression to introduce a final thought.

to conclude

A connector that introduces the final idea.

before I go

An idiomatic expression to introduce the final idea.

FAQs

How can I use "a last thought" in a sentence?

You can use "a last thought" to introduce a final point or reflection, like in the sentence, "As a last thought, consider the long-term implications of this decision".

What are some alternatives to "a last thought"?

Alternatives include "a final consideration", "a concluding remark", or "one final point", each offering a slightly different nuance in conveying a final idea.

Is it appropriate to use "a last thought" in formal writing?

Yes, "a last thought" is generally appropriate in formal writing, but consider alternatives like "in conclusion" or "as a final word" for a more sophisticated tone.

What's the difference between "a last thought" and "second thoughts"?

"A last thought" refers to a concluding idea, while "second thoughts" imply reconsidering a decision. They have opposite meanings and should not be confused.