What is the difference between finally and at last?

Finally is neutral and common in writing and speech. At last shows stronger feeling, like relief or impatience.

Can I use finally in formal writing?

Yes. Finally is very common in essays, reports, and presentations.

Does finally always mean the end?

Usually, yes. It can also mean after a long delay or many steps.

← Dictionary

finally

/ˈfaɪ.nə.li/

IELTSAcademic

adverb

Finally means at the end of a process, event, or period of time. It can also mean something happened after a long wait or delay.

Finally, we reached the hotel.
She finally answered my message.
He finally finished the report.

Adinary Nuance

Finally is about the end of a sequence or a long wait. It is close to at last, but finally often sounds more neutral and works well in writing and speech. Use at last when you want more feeling, relief, or impatience. Use finally when you simply mark the last step or the end of a talk.

In other languages

Vietnamese: cuối cùng
Spanish: finalmente
Chinese: 最终
Japanese: ついに
Korean: 마침내

Etymology

Finally comes from Middle English, from the adjective final, with the adverb ending -ly. It has been used in English since the 14th century.

Common phrases

finally, after all this timefinally donefinally arrivedfinally realised

Synonyms

ultimately at last eventually

Related words

last end afterward conclusion

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between finally and at last?: Finally is neutral and common in writing and speech. At last shows stronger feeling, like relief or impatience.
Can I use finally in formal writing?: Yes. Finally is very common in essays, reports, and presentations.
Does finally always mean the end?: Usually, yes. It can also mean after a long delay or many steps.