not least because

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not least because" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a reason or explanation that is significant among others, often emphasizing its importance. Example: "She decided to pursue a career in medicine, not least because she wanted to help others in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Not least because, well, gay people have children, too).

The New York Times

Not least because later this year the startup will open up its API.

TechCrunch

Not least because, you know, the money is potentially taken from other groups.

BMC Health Services Research

Not least because it isn't actually funny.

Independent

Not least because he's still alive.

The Guardian - Tech

Not least because he is absolutely right.

The Guardian - Business

Not least because it's a terrible mistake.

The Guardian

Not least because I am shattered.

The Guardian - Sport

Not least because of Vonnegut's style.

The Guardian - Books

Not least because it's also a restaurant.

The Guardian - Music

Not least because Zaragoza are so dire.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not least because" to introduce a reason that is particularly important or noteworthy among other contributing factors. This helps to emphasize its significance to the reader.

Common error

While "not least because" is effective for highlighting a key reason, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms like "especially since" or "primarily due to" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not least because" serves as an adverbial phrase that introduces a clause providing a reason or explanation. It emphasizes that the reason being introduced is particularly significant or noteworthy compared to other possible reasons. According to Ludwig AI, this is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not least because" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a particularly important reason among others. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It is frequently found in news and media contexts, with neutral register, and offers a way to emphasize the significance of a specific factor. When writing, use it to highlight key reasons, but avoid overuse and consider synonyms for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

especially since

Emphasizes the reason's importance with a direct causal link.

particularly as

Highlights a specific reason as noteworthy.

mainly because

Indicates the principal reason for something.

primarily due to

Stresses the causal relationship with a formal tone.

largely as a result of

Highlights the impact of a specific cause.

significantly because

Emphasizes the considerable impact of the reason.

notably because

Draws attention to a particular reason.

in particular because

Singles out a specific reason from others.

above all because

Indicates that the reason is the most important.

mostly because

Signifies that the reason is the predominant one.

FAQs

How to use "not least because" in a sentence?

Use "not least because" to introduce a particularly important reason among several others. For example, "The project was successful, "not least because" of the team's dedication."

What can I say instead of "not least because"?

You can use alternatives like "especially since", "primarily due to", or "mainly because" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "not least because" or "no less because"?

"Not least because" is the idiomatic and widely accepted phrase to introduce a significant reason. "No less because" is less common and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "not least because" and "because"?

"Because" introduces a general reason. "Not least because" emphasizes that the reason you're introducing is particularly important or noteworthy among other potential reasons.