Tail end Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tail end

[ˈteɪl ɛnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

position

The extreme or last end of something, especially of a piece of land or a body

Synonyms

end, extremity, tip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tail end	Use this word to describe the final or last part of something, often implying a long sequence or process. It's common in informal situations. They arrived at the tail end of the movie I only caught the tail end of the conversation
end	This is a versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal settings to denote the final point or conclusion of something. The end of the book was surprising We finally reached the end of our journey
extremity	This word is more formal and technical. It's often used in medical or descriptive contexts to refer to the farthest or outermost point. The doctor examined the patient's extremities They planted the flag at the extremity of the island
tip	This word is used to describe the pointed or very end part of something, often in informal contexts. The cat sat at the tip of the branch She touched the tip of the pen to the paper

Examples of usage

The house was located at the tail end of the street.
The tail end of the train was still in the tunnel.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

time

The final part or conclusion of something

Synonyms

conclusion, end, finale.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tail end	Used to describe the final part of something, often informal and can imply that something is less significant or interesting compared to earlier parts. I only caught the tail end of the movie. We were there for the tail end of the concert.
end	A broad term used to describe the final point of something. It is neutral and can be used in various contexts from events to objects. The end of the game was very exciting. At the end of the day, it's your decision.
conclusion	The final part of something, especially a formal statement or the final part of a text or event. Often used in context where a summary or final judgment is given. The conclusion of the report highlighted the main findings. In conclusion, we must act quickly.
finale	Specifically used to describe the final event in a sequence, especially in performances, series, or artistic works, often implying a grand or impressive ending. The series finale was unforgettable. We stayed for the fireworks finale.

Examples of usage

I missed the tail end of the movie.
Let's catch the tail end of the party.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

quality

The least desirable part of something

Synonyms

least desirable part, remnant, worst part.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tail end	This phrase is typically used to describe the concluding part of an event, process, or period of time. It doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation. We arrived at the tail end of the concert. He's catching the tail end of the presentation.
worst part	Clearly negative, this phrase describes the most unpleasant or undesirable aspect of something. The worst part of the movie was the ending. The worst part of the trip was the constant rain.
least desirable part	This expression often conveys a negative connotation, referring to the part of something that is considered the worst or least wanted. The least desirable part of my job is doing the paperwork. The least desirable part of the meal was the overcooked vegetables.
remnant	Commonly used to signify what is left behind after the majority has been used or removed. While not inherently negative, it can suggest something less significant. The remnants of the cake were wrapped up and saved for later. There were only remnants of their old friendship left.

Examples of usage

He got the tail end of the deal.
We were left with the tail end of the food.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In storytelling, the 'tail end' often refers to the conclusion or final chapter, providing resolution to the plot.
Many authors use the concept of 'tail end' in metaphors, comparing characters' journeys to the beginning and end of events.

Science

In environmental studies, the 'tail end' can refer to the final stage in a lifecycle, such as the decay of organic matter.
In statistics, data that fall into the 'tail end' of a distribution might indicate outliers or rare events, leading to diverse interpretations in research.

Common Usage

In everyday conversation, people may say they are waiting for the 'tail end' of an event to imply they are just hanging around for the last bits.
It’s also used in various phrases, like 'the tail end of summer,' which refers to the latter part of the season.

Pop Culture

In films and books, the 'tail end' can represent a character reflecting on their past after an event has concluded.
It’s often used humorously in comedy sketches, where characters arrive just at the 'tail end' of a dramatic moment.

Origin of 'tail end'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'tail end' combines 'tail,' which refers to the rear part of an animal, with 'end,' meaning the conclusion of something.
This expression has been used since the 19th century to describe the final part of something, especially in contexts like trains or processes.

The term 'tail end' originated from the combination of 'tail', referring to the rear end of an animal, and 'end', indicating the final part of something. It has been used since the 18th century to describe the extremity or conclusion of various objects or periods. Over time, 'tail end' has evolved to connote the least desirable part of something, reflecting its position at the end.