at the very end

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the very end" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that occurs after a lengthy process or duration of time. For example, "After months of hard work, we finally finished the project at the very end."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the very end of colon cancer.

The Guardian - Books

It came right at the very end.

The Guardian - Sport

Even at the very end, he inspires.

The Guardian - Sport

At the very end, though, he blew his top.

The New Yorker

I saw her one more time, at the very end.

The New Yorker

The odd thing happens at the very end.

The New York Times

It comes at the very end of the hearing.

The New Yorker

At least she was spared at the very end.

The New Yorker

At the very end of those negotiations, mayhem struck.

The New Yorker

At the very end, I learned, his family said, enough.

The New York Times

"Pull up," Miles had said at the very end.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the very end" to clearly emphasize the finality or last stage of an event, process, or period. This can provide a sense of closure or highlight a critical outcome that occurs precisely at the conclusion.

Common error

Avoid overuse, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. If the context already implies finality, using a simpler phrase like "at the end" or a synonym like "ultimately" might be more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the very end" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the time or point at which an action or event occurs. It emphasizes the terminal stage of a process or duration, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

25%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the very end" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to emphasize the final stage of a process or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, notably in News & Media, Science, and Wiki. While semantically similar phrases like "in conclusion" or "ultimately" exist, "at the very end" distinctly highlights the terminal point. When writing, be mindful of potential redundancy and consider if other phrasing options may improve clarity and conciseness. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively integrate "at the very end" to enhance your writing and emphasize the significance of final moments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the tail end

Suggests the last part of a sequence, often implying something trailing behind. Adds a sense of being at the rearmost part.

at the last moment

Focuses on the immediacy and urgency of something occurring just before the end. Adds an element of suspense or last-minute action.

in conclusion

Indicates a summarizing statement or final thought, often used in formal writing or speeches. Differs by focusing on summarizing rather than temporal placement.

ultimately

Emphasizes the final outcome or result after a process or period of time. Highlights consequence more than the timing.

in closing

Similar to "in conclusion" but often used in more informal settings. Specifically related to finishing a discussion or presentation.

in the final analysis

Highlights a comprehensive evaluation leading to a conclusion at the end of a process. More analytical than a simple indication of the end.

upon completion

Indicates that something happens exactly when something else finishes or becomes complete. More formal and emphasizes achievement.

when all is said and done

Implies a final assessment or reflection after all relevant factors have been considered. More reflective and philosophical.

as the dust settles

Suggests a period of chaos or activity subsiding before the final state is revealed. Adds a sense of resolution after turmoil.

at the termination

Formal and somewhat clinical, indicating the official end of something. Lacks the natural flow of everyday language.

FAQs

How can I use "at the very end" in a sentence?

You can use "at the very end" to emphasize the final stage of an event or process, such as, "At the very end of the movie, the hero saves the day".

What's a simpler alternative to "at the very end"?

Alternatives include "finally", "eventually", or "in the end", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "at the end" and "at the very end"?

"At the very end" emphasizes the finality and conclusive nature of the end, while "at the end" is a more general term that simply refers to the termination point.

When is it best to use "at the very end" instead of other similar phrases?

Use "at the very end" when you want to draw specific attention to the last moment or stage of something, especially if that moment is crucial or decisive. Consider if phrases like "ultimately" or "in conclusion" could be more appropriate depending on the context.