In plain English
It marks a final cutoff point. Anything done by that date or time is still within the limit, and anything after it is outside it.
In context
Here, it sets the last acceptable date or time by which a submission must be made.
- Situation
- Tracking obligations, deliverables, milestones, notices, and deadlines
- What it communicates
- sets the latest permitted date or time for submission.
Meaning limits
By itself, the phrase does not identify the specific date or time; it only states that the stated point cannot be exceeded.
Examples
“Hand in the keys no later than noon; 11:55 is fine, but 12:05 is too late.”
“Applicants must submit the form no later than 30 June.”