Last: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in daily conversation to indicate the most recent occurrence or the final instance of something.

• This is the last time I'll ask you
• We saw the last episode last night

Often used formally or in academic settings to refer to the ultimate version or occurrence.

• The final draft of the paper is due tomorrow
• They have reached the final stage of the competition

Refers to the most recent version or occurrence and is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

• Have you seen the latest news? This is the latest model of the car

Can describe the termination point of a duration, journey, or sequence of events. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

• We didn't see each other until the end of the party
• The end of the road is near

Appropriate for formal writing or speech to indicate the ending part of something like an event, meeting, or text.

• In the concluding chapter of the book, the author summarizes the key points
• The concluding remarks were very inspiring

Repeated word. See the first entry.

Used to indicate the final point or decision after a series of events or steps. Often marks the conclusion of a process.

• After months of debate, they finally reached an agreement
• Finally, we can relax after such a busy day

Highlights the most important fact or final result in a series of considerations.

• Ultimately, the decision is up to you
• The team's hard work ultimately paid off

Refers to something that happens after a period of time, often implying an inevitability.

• She eventually found her keys
• If you work hard, you'll eventually see results

Expresses relief or satisfaction after a long wait or effort. It has a connotation of finally achieving something desired.

• At last, the weekend is here
• After years of hard work, he graduated at last

Utilized to indicate the final item in a sequence, period, or event. It can also be used to describe something most recent when compared to previous instances.

• This is the last chapter of the book
• The last time I saw her, she was happy

General term to signify the cessation of something. It applies to a broad range of situations, from temporal to physical termination.

• Every good story has an end
• They reached the end of the road

Appropriate in formal or academic settings to summarize final remarks or the outcome of an argument, discussion, or piece of writing.

• In conclusion, the results show a significant difference
• The conclusion of the debate was unexpected

Specifically used for the concluding part of a performance, show, or event, often dramatic or grand.

• The season finale of the show was incredible
• Everyone stood for the finale of the concert

Best used to describe the final part or event before something ends, often in a formal or structured context.

• We made a lot of progress in the closing weeks of the project
• The closing ceremony was very emotional