but finally

USAGE SUMMARY

'but finally' is an acceptable and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to contrast a preceding statement or to show that something has reached a conclusion. For example, "I was having a difficult time understanding the theory, but finally, I was able to make sense of it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But finally.

The New York Times - Sports

But, finally, Jewel understood.

The New Yorker

But finally some movement.

Independent

But finally I have freedom.

The New York Times

But finally, it was divine.

The New York Times - Food

It's interesting but finally useless.

The New Yorker

But finally there's closure.

The New York Times

But finally, neither can stomach surrender.

The New York Times - Books

But, finally, it could go no further.

The New York Times - Sports

But, finally, I made myself read it.

The New Yorker

But, finally, Clurman played his hunch.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but finally", ensure that the initial part of the sentence introduces a clear contrast to set up the concluding statement effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "but finally" to simply indicate the last item in a sequence without any element of contrast or surprise. "Finally" alone is sufficient for listing items.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but finally" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two clauses, indicating a contrast ("but") followed by a concluding event or realization ("finally"). Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but finally" is a common and grammatically correct conjunctive phrase used to introduce a concluding event or realization that contrasts with preceding events. It is primarily found in news and media contexts, indicating a resolution or turning point. Ludwig AI confirms that "but finally" is a widely acceptable and usable phrase in written English and offers valuable examples of its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but in conclusion

More directly signals a concluding statement, making it suitable for summarizing arguments.

however eventually

Replaces "but" with "however" maintaining a similar contrasting function, and replaces "finally" with "eventually" which implies a time frame.

yet in the end

Uses "yet" for contrast and "in the end" to convey the concluding aspect, providing a slightly more dramatic feel.

nonetheless ultimately

Employs more formal synonyms for both conjunction and conclusion, suitable for academic or professional settings.

despite everything at last

Highlights the preceding difficulties with "despite everything", then concludes with "at last", emphasizing relief or arrival.

yet after some time

Emphasizes the time elapsed before the concluding event, offering a more narrative feel.

after all is said and done

A more verbose and idiomatic way of expressing the ultimate outcome after a series of events.

however in the long run

Similar to eventually or ultimately, but focuses on how something turns out over a prolonged period of time.

in spite of everything eventually

Similar to 'despite everything at last', but replacing the conclusion with "eventually" to imply something that happened after a period of time.

nevertheless at the end of the day

Combines a strong contrast with a common idiom for final assessment or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "but finally" in a sentence?

Use "but finally" to introduce a concluding event or realization that contrasts with preceding events or difficulties. For example, "The team faced numerous setbacks, "but finally", they achieved their goal".

What are some alternatives to "but finally"?

Alternatives include "however eventually", "yet in the end", or "nonetheless ultimately", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it redundant to use "but finally"?

While "finally" can sometimes suffice on its own to indicate a concluding event, using "but finally" emphasizes a contrast or change in circumstances leading up to that conclusion.

What's the difference between "but finally" and "finally"?

"Finally" simply indicates the end of a sequence or process. "But finally" introduces an element of contrast or resolution after a period of difficulty or uncertainty. For example, if you are looking for alternative phrases for "finally" check out "at last" or "in conclusion".