finally

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).

“Finally” is pronounced FEYE-nuh-lee (/ˈfaɪ.nə.li/ in IPA).

Here is “finally” used in a sentence: “After three interviews, she finally got the job.”

Words with a similar meaning to “finally” include eventually, for good, for good and all, in conclusion, in fine and in the end.

The opposite of “finally” — its antonyms — are initially and medially.

“Finally” is an adverb.

“Finally” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Finally” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: at last, after a long wait or delay.

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.

'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.

'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.