finally
- 01 A2 Elementary
after a long time, especially when there have been problems or delays.
after a considerable period of time or after various difficulties have been overcome.
Simple“After waiting for over an hour, the bus finally arrived.”
In context“After 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.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
used 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.
Simple“First, wash the vegetables; second, chop them; and finally, add them to the pot.”
In context“The 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.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
in a way that is final and cannot be changed.
in a conclusive or definitive manner that precludes further change or discussion.
Simple“The matter has now been finally settled by the court.”
In context“The 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.
Antonyms
finally vs at last — At last expresses relief or impatience after a long delay, while finally marks the last item in a sequence or a result achieved through effort.
finally vs eventually — Eventually describes a result that comes after a long or uncertain delay, while finally marks the last item in a sequence or a result achieved after specific difficulties.
Usage finally achieve · finally apply · finally conclude
From Middle English finally, fynaly, fynally, fynaliche, fynalliche, equivalent to final + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.