# end in

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/end-in
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to have a specific result or to finish in a certain way.

For teachers: to result in a particular outcome or to conclude with a specific final state; typically used to describe the resolution of a process or event.

## Examples

- The football match ends in a draw.
- Many arguments between the two brothers end in a long silence that lasts for several days.
- The negotiations, which had initially shown great promise, eventually ended in a complete deadlock after both parties refused to compromise on key terms.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The movie ended in a happy song." but "The movie ended with a happy song." — use 'with' for the final item in a sequence and 'in' for the final result or state of the situation.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun describing the final result or state.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'end with' (which focuses on the final part of a sequence) versus 'end in' (which focuses on the final result or consequence).

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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.