Finally: last or after a delay

The idea

Use sentence-initial Finally, for the last point or step. For a delayed result, finally often comes before the main verb: the bus finally arrived.

Examples

• First wash the cups. Finally, dry them.
• After a long wait, the bus finally arrived.
• Finally, I want to thank everyone for coming.
• She tried several keys and finally opened the door.
• First read the map. Finally, choose a route.
• We finally found the ticket under the book.

Watch out

Finally can mark order without suggesting frustration. For a last point in a talk, use finally, not at last.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the word for the last step. First wash the cups. ___, dry them. (Finally / Meanwhile)

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   Finally

   Finally introduces the last step in the sequence.

2. Choose what finally can express after a delay. After a long wait, the bus finally arrived. Finally can signal ___. (a delayed result / simultaneous actions)

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   a delayed result

   Finally can indicate a result after a delay.

3. Choose the word to introduce the final point of a talk. To introduce the last point of a talk, say ___. (Finally / At last)

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   Finally

   Finally is suitable for the last point of a talk.

Use it today

Describe a final step or something achieved after a long wait.