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3. by no means

by no means

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by no means

absolutely not; certainly not. I'm by no means angry with you. Bob: Did you put this box here? Tom: By no means. I didn't do it, I'm sure.

See also: mean

by no means

(slightly formal) also not by any means

not in any way This is by no means a terrible film. We are by no means finished yet.

Usage notes: usually used to disagree with someone who might have an opposite opinion

See also: mean

by no means

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]

See also: mean

by no means

In no sense; certainly not: This remark by no means should be taken lightly.

See also: mean