Expression that denotes impossibility in a succeeding clause

Question

I’m looking for an idiom or phrase that describes the impossibility/ludicrousness of something by comparing it to the near or full impossibility/ludicrousness of its lesser degree in a succeeding clause. It should denote a flustered/sarcastic disposition. I’m fairly sure it consists of two words.

(Someone asks you if you can walk 10 miles)

“I can barely walk 1 mile, _ 10!”

Thank you!

Does this answer your question? Less colloquial version of "(X), never mind (Y)"? (never mind, let alone, and even less, still less...) — Edwin Ashworth, May 29 '23 at 13:28
Provide one answer is laborious, "10 don't even think about it !" — Graffito, May 29 '23 at 17:02

score 5 · Answer 1 · answered May 29 '23 at 12:52

I think you are looking for let alone

From Merriam Webster:

let alone : conjunction : to say nothing of : not to mention —used especially to emphasize the improbability of a contrasting example

he would never walk again let alone play golf— Sports Illus.

how many ever see an Ambassador or Minister, let alone a President— Robert Lacville

score 2 · Answer 2 · answered May 29 '23 at 12:35

Looks a bit weird in your sentence, but:

I can barely walk 1 mile, much less 10!

From Oxford Languages:

used to introduce something as being even less likely or suitable than something else already mentioned.
"what woman would consider a date with him, much less a marriage?"

Expression that denotes impossibility in a succeeding clause

2 Answers2