Eventually Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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eventually
[ɪˈvɛntʃuəli ]
Definitions
in the end
after a long time, typically a difficult or protracted one
Synonyms
finally, in the end, ultimately.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eventually |
Used to indicate that something will happen after a period of time, often after some delays or obstacles.
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| finally |
Used when something happens after a long wait or many difficulties, often expressing relief or resolution.
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| ultimately |
Used to express the most important outcome or the main conclusion after considering all the lesser or intermediate steps.
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| in the end |
Used to show the final outcome or conclusion of a situation after considering all factors and events.
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Examples of usage
- Eventually, he found his way back home.
- She eventually realized her mistake and apologized.
over time
used to indicate that something will happen at some point in the future
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| finally |
Use when something happens at the end of a process, often indicating relief or satisfaction that the process is complete.
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| ultimately |
Use to indicate the final result or conclusion after considering all aspects, often in a broader or more philosophical context.
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Examples of usage
- She will eventually learn to play the piano.
- The project will eventually be completed.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Humans often have difficulty anticipating future events, leading to biases like optimism bias, where we believe good things will happen eventually.
- The concept of thinking 'eventually' can help individuals cope with stress by providing a sense of hope about the future.
- Procrastination can be linked to the idea of doing things 'eventually', leading to delays in achieving goals.
Literature
- In storytelling, the term is used to build suspense, leading readers to anticipate a resolution that will happen eventually.
- Many classic fairy tales end with 'happily ever after', an idea encapsulated by ‘eventually’ as they describe long-term resolutions to conflicts.
- Authors sometimes play with time, creating narratives that explore how characters reach their eventual destinies.
Pop Culture
- 'Eventually' is frequently featured in song lyrics to express themes of patience and hope, showing personal growth over time.
- In movies, characters often undergo challenges with the promise that something good will happen eventually, adding to emotional arcs.
- Popular phrases like 'Everything will be alright eventually' convey comfort and resilience, often appearing in motivational contexts.
Science
- In physics, the concept of 'eventual outcomes' is significant when discussing theories like chaotic systems, where the end state is unpredictable.
- Evolutionarily, species change eventually over time due to environmental pressures, illustrating slow, gradual adaptations.
- In environmental science, ecosystems reach a state of balance or equilibrium eventually, showcasing the resilience of nature.
Origin of 'eventually'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'eventus', meaning 'outcome' or 'to come out', indicating a future result.
- It has evolved through Middle English from the word 'eventual', which referred to something that would happen in the end.
- First recorded use in English was in the 15th century, primarily in discussions of outcomes.
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.