by no means

definitely not; in no way

• This is by no means the final design — we're still iterating.
• By no means should you skip the safety instructions before using the equipment.
• The project is by no means finished; we have a lot more to do.

'By no means' is used to emphasize a negation. It is somewhat formal and more common in written contexts or carefully prepared speeches. It's not a phrase typically used in casual everyday conversation.

A common mistake is confusing 'by no means' with 'by all means', which in English has the opposite meaning of granting permission or agreement. Saying 'This is by all means the final design' would be incorrect if you intend to express a negation.

• the jury is out on (something)
  there's no consensus yet on something
• set the stage for (something)
  create the conditions necessary for something to happen
• in broad daylight
  openly, in plain view
• raise eyebrows
  cause surprise or mild disapproval