Yet, or Let alone?

[GeorgeR]

There is an expression meaning "not to mention", which is sometimes quoted as "yet alone" and also "let alone". Which is correct?

[boatman]

I've never - knowingly - heard 'yet alone' used in this context. Stick with 'let alone' and you'll be fine.

[weediamond]

Definately Let alone
x

[jusmeDebiLyn]

I've always struggled with these phrases! Though there are quite a lot of people who believe LET alone is correct, I've not yet found any credible details to support their stand.

I honestly believe it is LET alone that has, unfortunately, HEARD the most because it's been heard wrong for so long, it has become not only acceptable, but also right!

Look at the 2 words ultimately in question: let & yet. The former is more associated with "allowing" something - nothing to do with building a stronger case against! Yet is related to time, but includes the adverbial synonyms below implying additional facts/thoughts/etc., a building up of or pointing to further meaning than the previous statement.

even · still · further · in addition · additionally · besides · into the bargain

Therefore, HOW can 'let' be the correct term? I just don't see it and will continue to use 'yet alone' until I'm convinced otherwise. Just sayin. :)

[derpdee63]

Sorry for being a few decades late. As you said, “let alone” is a stand-in for the phrase “not to mention” or “to say nothing of”. To let something alone means to leave it alone, or give it no attention. In language, ideas are let alone by not mentioning them. The correct phrase is “let alone”, so hopefully this helps to explain why.