by no means

idiom

Meaning

not at all. You use this to emphasize that something is definitely not true or will not happen.

Origin

disputed origin

From by + no + means (“condition or instrument to achieve a result”).

Examples

SIMPLE

This task is by no means easy.

CONTEXTUAL

The project is by no means finished, so we need to work through the weekend.

COMPLEX

The evidence presented was by no means conclusive, leaving the jury with significant doubts about the defendant's guilt.

Last updated April 22, 2026