least of all

USAGE SUMMARY

"least of all" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that something is the least likely or least important of a list of possibilities. For example: "I was least of all expecting that she would show up at my birthday party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Least of all her.

The New York Times

Least of all evidently, the Fitzgeralds".

The New York Times

Least of all in its prime minister".

Independent

Nobody wants that, least of all McIlroy.

Independent

He spares nobody, least of all himself.

The Economist

Least of all us.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Least of all, threats!

The New York Times

Least of all Milan.

The Guardian - Sport

Least of all Shakespeare.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"A film least of all".

The Guardian

"Least of all that film".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "least of all" to emphasize the unlikeliness or unimportance of one item among others. It adds a nuanced layer of exclusion.

Common error

Avoid using "least of all" in contexts where you intend to convey a positive or desirable attribute. The phrase inherently implies a negative or undesirable aspect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least of all" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is the least likely, suitable, or desirable among a group. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "least of all" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize the minimal importance or unlikeliness of something within a group. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it's essential to use "least of all" to single out something as especially unsuitable or unexpected. Alternatives like "especially not" or "certainly not" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember, this phrase implies a negative connotation, so avoid using it positively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

especially not

Focuses specifically on excluding a particular item or person from a group.

definitely not

Conveys a firm and unequivocal refusal or exclusion.

certainly not

Emphasizes a strong negation or denial, making something highly improbable.

particularly not

Singles out something as especially unsuitable or unlikely.

above all not

Highlights something that should be avoided more than anything else.

by no means

Indicates a strong denial or impossibility, similar to "certainly not".

not in the slightest

Emphasizes the complete absence of something.

to no extent

Indicates that something is not true or applicable in any way.

of all things, not

Highlights the unexpectedness or inappropriateness of something.

leastways not

Informal alternative expressing a similar sentiment of minimal expectation or occurrence.

FAQs

How to use "least of all" in a sentence?

Use "least of all" to emphasize that someone or something is the least likely or suitable among others. For example, "Nobody expected him to win, "least of all" his coach".

What can I say instead of "least of all"?

You can use alternatives like "especially not", "certainly not", or "above all not" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "least of all" or "the least of all"?

"Least of all" is the correct and more common usage. "The least of all" is grammatically awkward and rarely used.

What's the difference between "least of all" and "at least"?

"Least of all" emphasizes the minimal or unexpected nature of something, while "at least" indicates a minimum requirement or a positive aspect in a negative situation. They have opposite meanings.