akhirnya

Akhirnya is an Indonesian adverb meaning "finally" or "at long last." It signals the conclusion of a process or the resolution of a situation after a period of delay, effort, or anticipation, and it is commonly used in both spoken and written Indonesian.

Etymology and form: The word is built from the noun akhir, meaning "end," plus the suffix -nya, which in Indonesian can form adverbial or determiner expressions. The resulting akhirnya functions as an adverb that emphasizes culmination rather than mere sequence.

Usage and nuance: Akhirnya is versatile and widely used across registers, from casual speech to literary prose. It often conveys relief, satisfaction, or inevitability, highlighting that an expected or desired outcome has occurred after obstacles or waiting. It can introduce a new development or mark the turning point in a narrative or conversation.

Examples: Setelah bertahun-tahun menunggu, akhirnya dia mendapat jawaban yang dinantikan. Akhirnya pekerjaan selesai juga. Mereka telah berusaha keras, akhirnya mereka berhasil mencapai tujuan.

See also: In Malay and Indonesian usage, similar forms exist to express finality or culmination, though akhirnya is specifically an Indonesian adverb with the nuance described here.