ENGLISH
REFERENCE

finals

n.
US //ˈfaɪnəɫz// UK //fˈaɪnəlz// fi·nals
  1. 1 sports competition (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Sport

    the last series of games or matches in a tournament to decide the winner.

    the concluding stage of a sports competition or tournament, typically involving a series of matches to determine the ultimate champion.

    Example

    The team played brilliantly all season and finally reached the finals.

    Example

    After a gruelling semi-final match that went into overtime, the underdog team secured their place in the national finals.
  2. 2 academic exams (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the important exams that students take at the end of a school or university year.

    the final examinations at the end of an academic term or degree programme, often carrying significant weight for the final grade.

    Example

    I spent the whole weekend in the library studying for my history finals.

    Example

    The atmosphere on campus was noticeably tense as students prepared for their senior finals, which would determine their honours classifications.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 aviation approach (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    the last part of a flight when the plane is lined up with the runway to land.

    the final leg of an aircraft's approach to a runway, during which it is aligned with the centreline for landing.

    Example

    The pilot announced that we were on finals and would be landing in two minutes.

    Example

    The air traffic controller cleared the light aircraft for landing once the commercial jet ahead had cleared the runway and the pilot was established on finals.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'on finals'.
    • final approach

© 2026 English Reference