Eventually: meaning, definitions and examples

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eventually

 

[ ɪˈvɛntʃuəli ]

Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

in the end

after a long time, typically a difficult or protracted one

Synonyms

finally, in the end, ultimately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
eventually

Used to indicate that something will happen after a period of time, often after some delays or obstacles.

  • She didn't do her homework at first, but she eventually finished it before the deadline
finally

Used when something happens after a long wait or many difficulties, often expressing relief or resolution.

  • After hours of searching, he finally found his keys
ultimately

Used to express the most important outcome or the main conclusion after considering all the lesser or intermediate steps.

  • Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what you want to do with your life
in the end

Used to show the final outcome or conclusion of a situation after considering all factors and events.

  • They had many disagreements, but in the end, they managed to find a solution

Examples of usage

  • Eventually, he found his way back home.
  • She eventually realized her mistake and apologized.
Context #2 | Adverb

over time

used to indicate that something will happen at some point in the future

Synonyms

finally, ultimately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
eventually

Use when something happens after a period of time, often despite difficulties or delays. It suggests a natural progression towards an outcome.

  • He studied hard and eventually passed the exam.
  • They argued for hours, but eventually reached an agreement.
finally

Use when something happens at the end of a process, often indicating relief or satisfaction that the process is complete.

  • After a long journey, they finally arrived at their destination.
  • She tried several recipes, and finally found the perfect one.
ultimately

Use to indicate the final result or conclusion after considering all aspects, often in a broader or more philosophical context.

  • Ultimately, it is your decision to make.
  • They faced many challenges, but ultimately succeeded.

Examples of usage

  • She will eventually learn to play the piano.
  • The project will eventually be completed.

Translations

Translations of the word "eventually" in other languages:

🇵🇹 eventualmente

🇮🇳 आखिरकार

🇩🇪 schließlich

🇮🇩 akhirnya

🇺🇦 зрештою

🇵🇱 ostatecznie

🇯🇵 最終的に

🇫🇷 finalement

🇪🇸 finalmente

🇹🇷 sonunda

🇰🇷 결국

🇸🇦 في النهاية

🇨🇿 nakonec

🇸🇰 nakoniec

🇨🇳 最终

🇸🇮 končno

🇮🇸 að lokum

🇰🇿 ақырында

🇬🇪 საბოლოოდ

🇦🇿 nəhayət

🇲🇽 finalmente

Etymology

The word 'eventually' originated from the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word 'eventuel', meaning 'contingent'. It has evolved over time to signify something that will happen at some point in the future or after a long period of time.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,207, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.