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Could you help with the use of the phrase "not least" in this sentence?

Acute and chronic pain syndromes in pregnant women are difficult to manage, not least because there is a need to balance the best interests of the mother and the neonate.

Please explain the exact meaning and the use of "not least" in this sentence.

It does not necessarily mean the most important aspect, but does not mean the least important aspect either. It means it’s a mid-level concern, yet noteworthy.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 at 11:12 pm and is filed under in neonates. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

5 Responses to “Could you help with the use of the phrase "not least" in this sentence?”

  1. Helen Scott Says:
    November 4th, 2009 at 4:23 am

    it’s like saying ‘mostly’.
    References :

  2. Milo Says:
    November 4th, 2009 at 4:37 am

    It means "largely" or "a big reason".
    References :

  3. ☆ Spharoe Says:
    November 4th, 2009 at 4:51 am

    It does not necessarily mean the most important aspect, but does not mean the least important aspect either. It means it’s a mid-level concern, yet noteworthy.
    References :

  4. Skywalker Says:
    November 4th, 2009 at 5:19 am

    One important reason for managing the pain, but not the least important reason, is because it is in the best interest of the mother and the neonate. Does this now make more sense ?
    References :

  5. Trish Says:
    November 4th, 2009 at 6:06 am

    In this sentence, "not least" means that the balance of needs of the mother and neonate is not the smallest of concerns, but by implication is a MAJOR concern in pain management.
    References :

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