English Reference

Word

finished

Phoneticsfin·ished, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈfɪnɪʃt/

UK/fˈɪnɪʃt/

Definitions

01completed

A2 · Elementary

adj. having come to an end or being completed.

adj. having reached an end; concluded or brought to a state of completion.

“Are you finished with that book yet, or do you need more time?”

“Once the report is finished and proofread, please submit it to the department head for final approval.”

Pitfall

I am finished my homework.

I have finished my homework.

When 'finished' is the main action, use 'have'. Use 'am finished' only as an adjective to describe your state of being done.

02refined or polished

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. made to look perfect or high-quality through careful work.

adj. brought to a highly polished or perfected state; often used regarding materials or artistic performances.

“The finished wood on the table was smooth and shiny.”

“The pianist gave a very finished performance, showing technical mastery and deep emotional maturity.”

Antonyms

03doomed or exhausted

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

adj. having no more power, money, or chance of success.

adj. experiencing a total loss of resources, power, or viability; figuratively doomed.

“If we don't find more water soon, we are finished.”

“After the scandal went public, the politician knew his career was effectively finished.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “finished” in context.

01. finished third 02. finished fourth 03. finished second

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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