finalement

Finalement is a French adverb meaning finally or in the end. It is used to signal the conclusion of a sequence, a change of course, or the outcome after a period of development or consideration. The word is formed from the adjective final with the adverbial suffix -ement, and it is related to other expressions that convey conclusion, such as en fin de compte and enfin.

Usage and nuance: Finalement typically introduces the final result or decision after discussion, effort, or anticipation. It can convey relief, surprise, or a sense of closure, and it often appears at the beginning or after the main clause in a sentence. Examples: Finalement, nous avons choisi de rester. Après plusieurs essais, finalement il a réussi. Finalement, tout s’est bien passé. In nuance, it tends to be more neutral than enfin, which can carry stronger emotional undertones or impatience.

Translations and synonyms: In English, finalement is commonly translated as finally, in the end, or ultimately. Related French expressions include enfin (more spontaneous or emphatic), en fin de compte (more formal or analytical), and pour finir (to conclude). As a general-purpose adverb, finalement is versatile across spoken and written French, suitable for narrative, reportage, and formal prose.

Pronunciation and usage notes: Pronounced [fi.na.lə.mɑ̃], with a nasal final. It is used across registers, though it may sound more formal than some alternatives in informal speech.