# and finally

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/and-finally
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A light news story reserved for the end of a bulletin when there is a lack of more important items; typically involving animals or other features supposed to be amusing.

## Examples

- And finally, a cat that can play the piano.
- The reporter introduces an 'and finally' story about a talking parrot.
- The news anchor finished the report, then said, and finally, here is a video of a dog riding a skateboard.
- The program ended with an 'and finally' about a local man who grows giant pumpkins in his backyard.
- After forty minutes of heavy economic news, the viewers enjoyed an 'and finally' segment featuring a surfing competition for rabbits.
- After covering the serious political debate, the broadcaster transitioned to the lighter segment, announcing, and finally, a look at the local zoo's newest arrivals.

## Origin

Derived from the standard introductory formula employed by newsreaders to announce human-interest stories or lighter items. Such pieces typically occur at the conclusion of a news bulletin, providing a shift in tone before the broadcast terminates.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.