1
Core relationship
Emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
Example
The survey documented no less than forty previously unknown sites.
no less than
/nəʊ les ðæn/ · noh LESS thanemphatic-degree phrase
Emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
Use no less than to express this relationship precisely: emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
What no less than Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
No less than three independent records confirm the event.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The restoration required no less than the entire available budget.
Use no less than Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The survey documented no less than forty previously unknown sites.
No less than three independent records confirm the event.
The restoration required no less than the entire available budget.
Precision Matters
No less than overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
no less than
vs.Means emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
nothing more than
Means reduce something to merely the description that follows, denying greater importance or complexity.
no less than
vs.Means emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
in large part
Means mostly or to a substantial extent, though not necessarily entirely.
no less than
vs.Means emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
at least
Means not less than a stated minimum; or in any case, used to identify a limited positive point.
no less than
vs.Means emphasise that an amount or degree is as great as the stated figure.
more often than not
Means usually or in a majority of cases, while allowing exceptions.
Test no less than in Context
The phrase emphasises that twelve is a surprisingly large number.
1
The archive contains ___ twelve handwritten versions of the speech.