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Synonyms

by no means

Idioms  

  1. Also, not by any means. In no way, certainly not. For example, He is by no means a weak opponent, or Not by any means will I go along with that decision. [Late 1400s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"When it comes to defence industry cooperation, Japan is by no means a country with the world's most advanced weaponry; therefore, we must actively work to build relationships with other nations," Sato told AFP.

From Barron's • May 3, 2026

“It was helpful … but it was by no means a bailout.”

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2026

It’s by no means sufficient to really fill the gap, but states could jump in here.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

She is by no means sure that she will even vote.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Despite his seemingly progressive actions, Mr. de Klerk was by no means the great emancipator.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.