finally
adv.-
1 after a long time (adv.) A2 Elementaryafter a long time, especially when there have been problems or delays.
after a considerable period of time or after various difficulties have been overcome.
ExampleAfter waiting for over an hour, the bus finally arrived.
ExampleAfter months of intense negotiations and several near-collapses of the deal, the two companies finally signed the merger agreement.
UsageUsually placed before the main verb or after the verb 'to be'.
PitfallI finally am here.I am finally here.When used with the verb 'to be', 'finally' usually comes after the verb.
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2 lastly in a list (adv.) B1 Intermediateused to introduce the last point, item, or step in a series.
used to introduce the final element in a sequence or the concluding point of an argument.
ExampleFirst, wash the vegetables; second, chop them; and finally, add them to the pot.
ExampleThe speaker discussed the economic benefits, the social impact, and finally, the long-term environmental consequences of the project.
UsageOften used as a sentence starter followed by a comma.
- lastly
- in conclusion
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3 definitively (adv.) C1 Advanced Formalin a way that is final and cannot be changed.
in a conclusive or definitive manner that precludes further change or discussion.
ExampleThe matter has now been finally settled by the court.
ExampleThe board of directors met yesterday to finally determine the fate of the subsidiary, ending months of corporate uncertainty.
Teacher's tipThis sense is more formal and less common than the 'after a long time' meaning; it implies a permanent decision.
- conclusively
- permanently
- once and for all
From Middle English finally, fynaly, fynally, fynaliche, fynalliche, equivalent to final + -ly.