Page 214 - Practical English Usage 3ed - Michael Swan, Oxford

finally, at last, in the end and at the end 204
204 finally. at last. in the end and at the end 1 finally
Finally can suggest that one has been waiting a long time for something. In this sense, it often goes in mid-position (with the verb - see 24).
After trying three times, she finally managed pass her exam.
Steve has finaUy found a job.
Finally can also introduce the last element in a series, like lastly (see 157.10).
We must increase productivity. We must reduce unemployment. And finally, we must compete in world markets.
2 at last
At last also suggests - very strongly - the idea of impatience or inconvenience resulting from a long wait or delay.
James has paid me that money at last.
When at last they found him he was almost dead.
At last can be used as an exclamation. (Finally cannot be used in this way.) At last! Where the hell have you been?
Note that lastly (introducing the last item in a series) is not the same as at last. Firstly, we need to increase profits. Secondly, . .. Thirdly, ... And lastly, we
need to cut down administrative expenses. (NOT .•. 14:nd at lIftS' we neetl t6 ettt ti6wn ...)
3 in the end
In the end suggests that something happens after changes or uncertainty.
We made eight different holiday plans, but in the end we went to Brighton. I left in the middle ofthe film. Did they get married in the end?
The tax man will get you in the end.
Another use of in the end is to mean 'after we have considered everything'. In the end, you can't get fit without exercise.
In the end, Mother knows best.
4 at the end
At the end simply refers to the position of something. There is no sense of waiting or delay.
A declarative sentence has a full stop at the end.
I wish I was paid at the beginning ofthe week and not at the end.
For eventllally. see 190.
205 finished
Finished can be used as an adjective meaning 'ready'. Is the report finished yet?
With personal subjects, to befinished is often used in an informal style with the same meaning as to have finished.
How soon will you be/have finished, dear?
I went to get the car from the garage, but they weren'tlhadn't finished.
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