Finally

Finally is an adverb used to indicate that something occurs at the end of a sequence, after a long process, or as the last item in a list. It often signals conclusion, resolution, or a turning point in discourse, and it can convey relief or inevitability, as in: “Finally, the project is complete.” When used in writing, finally is a sentence adverb or conjunctive adverb, typically placed to connect ideas and emphasize the outcome or final point, though placement can vary for emphasis.

Etymology and sense: Finally derives from the adjective final, which itself comes from the Latin finalis “end, boundary,” ultimately rooted in finis “end.” The adverbial form gained common usage in English to signal the last stage or conclusion of a sequence or argument.

In grammar and style, finally functions to cue readers that a summation or resolution is forthcoming. It is distinct from words like “lastly” in that it also carries a sense of culmination or relief. Proper usage aims for clarity rather than overuse, and it is often preferred when the speaker wants to mark a decisive end or turn in reasoning.

In computing, finally is a reserved keyword in many programming languages that introduces a block of code guaranteed to run after a try (and possibly catch) block, regardless of whether an exception occurred. This ensures cleanup actions, such as releasing resources. Languages that feature a finally construct include Java, C#, JavaScript, and Python.

In popular culture, Finally is the title of various works, notably songs and albums, reflecting its common association with resolution or timely conclusions.