ENGLISH
REFERENCE

in the end

prep. phr..
A2 Elementary Oxford

prep. phr.. This means 'finally' or 'after a long time', and it introduces the final result of a situation.

prep. phr.. An adverbial phrase indicating the final outcome or conclusion of a series of events, often after a period of uncertainty or difficulty.


SIMPLE

In the end, we all went home.

CONTEXTUAL

We argued for hours, but in the end, we agreed to disagree.

COMPLEX

Though the project was beset by delays and budget overruns, in the end, it was hailed as a monumental success.

Usage

This phrase introduces the final outcome of a situation, often one that was long or difficult.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'at the end', which refers to a specific point in time or space (e.g., 'at the end of the street').

Pitfall

At the end, it was a good decision.In the end, it was a good decision.Use 'in the end' for a final outcome; 'at the end' marks a specific point in time or space.

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