Finale: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in the context of performances or competitions, such as music, theater, or sports, to describe the last part of the event that usually includes a big finish.

• The concert's finale was a spectacular fireworks display.
• In the season finale, all the secrets were revealed.

Used when referring to the end of a discussion, essay, story, or any sequence of events, emphasizing the summary or resolving part. It generally has a more neutral tone.

• In conclusion, we must all work together to solve this issue.
• The conclusion of the meeting highlighted the next steps we need to take.

Describes the turning point or most intense part of a story, movie, or any sequence of events. It can have both a positive or negative connotation depending on the context.

• The movie reaches its climax when the hero confronts the villain.
• The book's climax had me on the edge of my seat.

Describes the highest point or most significant stage of a process or series of events, often following a long buildup. It usually has a positive connotation, emphasizing achievement or completion.

• Winning the championship was the culmination of years of hard work.
• The festival was the culmination of months of planning.

This word is typically used to describe the last part of a performance, such as a concert, play, or television series, often suggesting an exciting or dramatic ending.

• The season finale left the audience on the edge of their seats.
• The finale of the symphony was absolutely stunning.

This word is more general and can be used in various contexts to refer to the final part of something. It doesn’t carry the same formal tone as 'conclusion' or the dramatic tone of 'finale'.

• The movie’s ending was quite unexpected.
• I didn’t like the ending of the book.

This word is often used in formal or academic contexts to signify the final part of something, such as a book, essay, report, or experiment, where a summary or final thoughts are presented.

• In conclusion, the research supports the hypothesis.
• The conclusion of the book was deeply thought-provoking.

This phrase is informal and often used in conversational contexts to mean finishing something. It can refer to meetings, discussions, projects, and tasks.

• Let’s wrap up the meeting and head to lunch.
• We need to wrap up the project by Friday.

Identical to the first entry; please note it appears twice by mistake.

• The season finale of the TV show was breathtaking
• The concert finale featured all the musicians on stage together

Used for the end of a process, study, argument, or essay, often summarizing the preceding material.

• The conclusion of the study showed promising results
• In conclusion, we believe the project was a success

Used when describing the point at which something reaches its peak after a long development or effort.

• The graduation ceremony was the culmination of years of hard work
• The project's launch marked the culmination of months of planning

Used when referring to the most intense or exciting moment in a narrative or event.

• The story reached its climax when the hero faced the villain
• The climax of the movie had everyone on the edge of their seats