finally
12 synonyms and 2 antonyms for finally, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — At last, after a long wait or delay.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From Middle English finally, fynaly, fynally, fynaliche, fynalliche, equivalent to final + -ly.
Full origin of finally →Frequently asked questions
What does “finally” mean?
The word “finally” means at last, after a long wait or delay. In plain terms, either "at long last" (after waiting) or "lastly" (when listing points).
How do you pronounce “finally”?
“Finally” is pronounced FEYE-nuh-lee (/ˈfaɪ.nə.li/ in IPA).
How do you use “finally” in a sentence?
Here is “finally” used in a sentence: “After three interviews, she finally got the job.”
What is another word for “finally”?
Words with a similar meaning to “finally” include eventually, for good, for good and all, in conclusion, in fine and in the end.
What is the opposite of “finally”?
The opposite of “finally” — its antonyms — are initially and medially.
What part of speech is “finally”?
“Finally” is an adverb.
Is “finally” a common word?
“Finally” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “finally” have?
“Finally” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: at last, after a long wait or delay.
What is the difference between 'finally' and 'eventually'?
Both mean something happens after a delay. 'Finally' carries relief or impatience — the long wait is over at last. 'Eventually' notes more neutrally that it happened after some time, often after twists or setbacks. 'Finally, the bus came' sounds relieved; 'eventually, the bus came' just sounds matter-of-fact.
What is the difference between 'finally' and 'lastly'?
'Finally' has two jobs: it can mean 'at last, after a delay,' or it can introduce a last point. 'Lastly' only does the second — marking the final item in a list or sequence. Use 'finally' for relief after waiting; use either word when you simply reach your last point.
What is an example of 'finally' in a sentence?
'After hours of searching, we finally found the keys.' 'The results are finally here.' Each shows something happening at last, after a wait or delay, usually with a clear sense of relief that the waiting has come to an end. That feeling of release is what 'finally' adds.