not by any means Definition

means
singular or plural noun

1. The instrument or method used to achieve some object.

Thesaurus: method, way, mechanism, agency, system, machinery.
2. Wealth; resources.

Thesaurus: ability, capacity, wherewithal; funds, wealth, assets, resources.

Idiom: a means to an end

Something treated merely as a way of achieving a desired result, considered unimportant in every other respect.

Idiom: by all means

rather formal
Yes, of course.
Thesaurus: surely, yes, of course, certainly, positively, absolutely.

Idiom: by any means

Using any available method.
Thesaurus: in any way, somehow, anyhow, by hook or by crook.

Idiom: by fair means

See under fair.

Idiom: by means of something

With the help or use of it.

Idiom: by no means (not by any means)

Not at all; definitely not.
Thesaurus: never, no, in no way, definitely not, on no account.

Etymology: 17c: from mean³.