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
Many city residents south of I-20 live a significant ways away from any major medical facilities, let alone emergency facilities. Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 2 June 2026 No technical area is big enough to contain his enthusiasm, let alone the minimalist version at Bournemouth, which is the smallest in the Premier League. Thom Harris, New York Times, 2 June 2026 In turn, you’re left sensing that something has changed, but without ever fully knowing how to repair it — let alone whether or not repair is even possible. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026 That’s way more equitable than decking because not everyone has a yard, let alone a space to put up a deck. Lisa Deaderick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 May 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 3 Jun. 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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