finally
UK: ˈfaɪnəli | US: ˈfaɪnəli
adv. at the end of a period of time or series of actions
adv. used to introduce a final point or reason
adv. in a decisive or conclusive manner
finally = final<last> + ly<adverb suffix>
- final: From Latin finalis ("of or pertaining to an end"), derived from finis ("end, boundary").
- ly: An Old English adverbial suffix indicating manner or quality, originally from Proto-Germanic -līko.
Etymology Origin:
The word "finally" evolved from the Latin finis (meaning "end"), which passed into Old French as final and later into Middle English. The suffix -ly was added to form an adverb, emphasizing the conclusive nature of an action or event. The progression reflects a logical shift from spatial/temporal boundaries (Latin finis) to abstract conclusions (modern "finally").
After months of hard work, she finally completed her thesis.
Finally, let’s address the most important question.
The judge ruled finally on the case, leaving no room for appeal.
He checked his phone repeatedly until the message finally arrived.
The team finally won the championship after years of setbacks.