at last

USAGE SUMMARY

"at last" is an appropriate and usable expression in written English.
Depending on the context, you can use it to emphasize the occurrence of something after a prolonged period of time. For example, you could say: "At last, I have finished my college degree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

AT LAST they came.

The Economist

AT LAST it is official.

The Economist

At last, at last.

The New Yorker

'Free at last, free at last.

The New Yorker

Free, free at last.

Independent

At last, something happens!

The New Yorker

Jude at last.

The New York Times

Cult viewing at last.

Independent

Spring at last.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Waterworks at last.

The New Yorker

So, underway at last.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at last" to mark the end of a period of anticipation or struggle, creating a sense of relief or accomplishment in your writing. For example, "After years of hard work, at last, she achieved her dream."

Common error

Avoid using "at last" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive and diminish its impact. Use it sparingly to emphasize particularly significant resolutions or achievements.

How to use

Learn how to use "at last" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at last" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing of an event. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it is used to emphasize the occurrence of something after a prolonged period.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at last" functions as an adverbial phrase used to express the arrival of something after a period of waiting or difficulty. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered grammatically correct and usable in written English to emphasize the occurrence of something after a prolonged period of time. With its neutral register and common usage in News & Media and Wiki contexts, it effectively conveys a sense of relief or culmination. While "at last" is a versatile expression, it is advisable to use it carefully in writing to avoid repetition and maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

finally

This single word conveys the same sense of something happening after a delay, though it lacks the emphasis of "at last".

eventually

Indicates something happened after some time, but it doesn't necessarily imply the same level of anticipation or relief.

in the end

Similar to "finally", but it can also refer to the ultimate outcome regardless of the time it took.

after a long time

More descriptive, specifying the duration of the wait, and it can also be used to make something more emphatic.

ultimately

Implies a final result or conclusion, often after a process or series of events.

in conclusion

Used to summarize or bring something to a close, often in a formal setting.

the waiting is over

Emphasizes the end of a period of anticipation, adding a sense of relief or resolution.

the moment has arrived

Highlights the significance of a particular time or event that was long awaited.

the day has come

Similar to the previous phrase, it marks the arrival of a significant event or opportunity.

it happened

Simple statement acknowledging an event, lacking the specific context of delay or anticipation.

FAQs

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

"At last" is typically used to express relief or satisfaction that something has finally happened after a long wait. For example: "At last the rain stopped" or "At last we found the missing keys".

What are some alternatives to saying "at last"?

Alternatives to "at last" include "finally", "eventually", "in the end", or "after a long wait". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "finally" instead of "at last"?

Yes, "finally" is a suitable substitute for "at last" in many cases. Both words indicate that something has happened after a period of time, but "at last" often carries a stronger sense of relief or accomplishment.

What is the difference between "at last" and "in the end"?

"At last" emphasizes the relief or satisfaction of something happening after a delay, while "in the end" focuses on the final outcome or result, regardless of the time it took to achieve it. "At last we reached the summit" suggests relief after a difficult climb, whereas "In the end we won the game" simply states the final result.