let alone

1 of 2

conjunction

Synonyms of let alonenext
: to say nothing of : not to mention
used especially to emphasize the improbability of a contrasting example
… he would never walk again, let alone play golf.Sports Illus.
how many ever see an Ambassador or Minister, let alone a PresidentRobert Lacville

let alone

2 of 2

phrase

: to leave undisturbed
let the flowers alone
also : to leave to oneself
wanted to be let alone

Synonyms of let alone

Examples of let alone in a Sentence

Conjunction I don't have enough money for a new car, let alone a luxury sedan.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Conjunction
Nobody winds up a winner in Agon, let alone makes it out of these faux Olympics unscathed. Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026 This is the meeting of the messenger planet and the taskmaster, let alone in the zodiac’s most fearless sign, setting the stage for a transit that cuts right through the fluff, forcing truth and directness. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 20 Apr. 2026 Dead on arrival is what state Republicans are saying about attempts to approve recreational cannabis legalization, let alone exemption from criminal or civil penalties for cannabis convictions and expungements. Ross Guidotti, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026 Since the start of last year, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken longer and longer to process applications, meaning an increasing number of people wait months without confirmation that their application was received - let alone reviewed. Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for let alone

Word History

First Known Use

Conjunction

1765, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of let alone was in 1765

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Let alone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/let%20alone. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

let alone

conjunction
: to say nothing of : not to mention
lacked the courage, let alone the know-how
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