Finally
/ˈfaɪnəli/
Definitions
2 meaningsUsed to indicate that something happens after a long time, or after a lot of delay or difficulty.
/ˈfaɪnəli/
At the end; after a long time or some difficulty.
He finally understood the instructions.
💡 Simply: It's like when you've been waiting for something for a long time, and then it *finally* happens! Like, "I finally got to eat my ice cream after waiting all day!"
👶 For kids: When something happens after waiting a long time, like when you finally get to open your birthday presents!
More Examples
After years of research, they finally found a cure.
The train finally arrived.
How It's Used
"The project was finally completed after months of hard work."
"After a long journey, they finally reached their destination."
Used to introduce the last item or point in a sequence or series.
/ˈfaɪnəli/
Used to indicate that what you are saying is the last thing in a series.
First, we need to get the supplies. Second, we need to set up the equipment. Finally, we can start the experiment.
💡 Simply: When you're listing things and you're at the end, you say 'finally!' Like, 'I went to the store to buy milk, bread, and finally, some cookies!'
👶 For kids: When you have the last thing on your list, like, "First we played tag, then we played hide-and-seek, and finally, we had pizza!"
More Examples
The meeting began with introductions, followed by a presentation, and finally a Q&A session.
How It's Used
"Finally, let's summarize the main points."
"First, add the flour. Then, add the eggs. Finally, bake at 350 degrees."
Idioms & expressions
finally found
To discover or locate something after a search or effort.
"She finally found the keys after searching everywhere."
finally see
To experience or understand something, often after a delay or misunderstanding.
"He finally saw the point of the exercise."
From Middle English *finalliche*, from *final* + *-ly*. *Final* derives from Old French *final*, from Latin *finalis* ("relating to the end, final").
The adverb 'finally' has been used since the 14th century, evolving from its earlier forms that emphasized the ultimate outcome or end of a process.
Memory tip
Think of the end of a race. You finally cross the finish line!