and at last

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "and at last" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something has finally happened after a long wait or series of events. Example: "After years of hard work and dedication, she achieved her dream of becoming a published author, and at last, her book was on the shelves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And at last the children came.

The Economist

And at last we jumped.

The New York Times - Arts

And, at last, I spot a nodule.

The Guardian - Travel

In practice, the idea proved unwieldy and, at last, unprofitable.

The New York Times

(Tintoretto especially — and at last — registers with fitting majesty).

The New Yorker

But at least, and at last, there are questions.

The New York Times - Books

Which Ireland field, and at last they break.

The Guardian - Sport

And at last, the classy Sultan Palace Hotel.

The Guardian - Travel

And, at last, the general public was allowed in.

The Guardian - Arts

She stayed where she was, and at last Jerry returned.

The New Yorker

Clinical state was assessed by Ability Index before AFL and at last visit.

International Journal of Cardiology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "and at last" to create a sense of narrative resolution, especially after detailing a series of challenges or delays.

Common error

Avoid using "and at last" in contexts where the resolution is immediate or expected. Overusing it can make your writing sound melodramatic or forced. Choose simpler alternatives like "finally" or "eventually" for straightforward situations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "and at last" is as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause, indicating the timing or conclusion of an action or state. It often signals a sense of resolution or finality after a period of waiting or effort, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

2.5%

Social Media

2.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "and at last" functions as an adverbial phrase used to signal the completion or resolution of an event, often after a period of anticipation or difficulty. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and very common in written English, particularly in news and media, though its register leans towards neutral to slightly formal. While versatile, it's best to avoid overusing "and at last" in simple narratives, opting for more direct alternatives like "finally" when appropriate. The semantic proximity of alternatives like "finally" and "in the end" offers writers flexibility in expressing narrative conclusions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

finally

This is the simplest and most direct synonym, indicating the end of a delay or process.

at long last

This intensifies the sense of waiting and relief when something finally happens.

in the end

This phrase emphasizes the culmination of a series of events or a longer period.

eventually

Suggests a gradual process leading to a final outcome over time.

ultimately

Highlights the definitive or conclusive result after other considerations.

after all

Indicates something happening despite previous difficulties or doubts.

in conclusion

Often used to summarize a series of points, indicating the final thought.

at the end of the day

Highlights what is most important after everything else is considered.

sooner or later

Implies inevitability over time, rather than a specific end point.

after a while

Indicates something happening after a period of time has passed. It is less emphatic than "and at last".

FAQs

How can I use "and at last" in a sentence?

"And at last" is typically used to indicate that something has finally happened after a long wait or series of events. Example: "After years of hard work and dedication, she achieved her dream of becoming a published author, and at last, her book was on the shelves."

What are some alternatives to "and at last"?

You can use alternatives like "finally", "in the end", or "eventually" depending on the context.

Is "and at last" formal or informal?

"And at last" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it might lend a slightly more literary or narrative tone to your writing.

When is it inappropriate to use "and at last"?

Avoid using "and at last" when the event being described happens quickly or without any preceding delay or difficulty. Simpler alternatives might be more suitable in such cases.