nothing less than

Pronunciation

• /ˈnʌθɪŋ les ðæn/
• American: /ˈnʌθɪŋ lɛs ðæn/

Origin

This phrase is a combination of three common English words: "nothing" (not anything), "less" (smaller in amount), and "than" (used in comparisons).

Meanings

1. Used to emphasize the significance, importance, or magnitude of something
2. Equivalent to; amounting to
3. Expressing that something is surprising or impressive

Example Sentences

1. His performance was nothing less than spectacular.
2. The project requires nothing less than total commitment.
3. She expected nothing less than perfection from her team.
4. The new policy is nothing less than a revolution in healthcare.

Related Words

• Forms: (This phrase has no other grammatical forms)
• Synonyms:
  • no less than
  • no other than
  • simply
  • absolutely

Memorizable Tricks

• Think of it as a way to build up to something impressive: "It's not just good, it's nothing less than amazing!"
• Imagine a scale where "nothing less than" sets the minimum bar very high.
• Remember that this phrase often precedes superlatives or highly positive descriptions.