but then finally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but then finally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a conclusion or resolution after a series of events or thoughts. Example: "We faced many challenges during the project, but then finally, we managed to complete it on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But then, finally, we reached the top.

The New York Times - Magazine

The therapist, Amy, says no several times, but then finally agrees.

The New Yorker

But then finally we see the hard edges of the original kitchen bad boy soften.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Inside the pub, Amy tells Mathews she doesn't drink, but then, finally, at his insistence, downs several Margaritas.

The New Yorker

But then, finally, came the announcement of a once unthinkable, perhaps unpalatable statement: Donald Trump elected US president.

The Guardian

The mayor gave his usual caveats about wanting to serve folks in San Antonio, but then finally admitted that he would "consider" running for governor in 2018.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

And she added, "The Aristotelian model — a person wants something, comes close to getting it but is smashed down, then finally gets it, or not, then learns something from the experience — I don't find helpful.

The New Yorker

They resist all efforts to erase them, but crouch beneath soiled cloaks, then finally fade away.

The New York Times

We were together and separated, then together again, then finally separated, but people can't stop you from fighting for your rights".

Vice

But then he finally called Hough into his office.

The New York Times

But then she finally admitted: he is a really good short story writer.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but then finally" to clearly signal a resolution or conclusion after a series of contrasting events or actions. It helps create a sense of narrative progression.

Common error

Avoid using "but then finally" in very short sentences where the contrast is already apparent. It can make the writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Consider using a simpler conjunction or adverb.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but then finally" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking contrasting ideas while indicating a sequential and conclusive element. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently employed across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but then finally" serves as a conjunctive phrase indicating a resolution or conclusion after a contrasting event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific publications. While versatile, it should be used judiciously to avoid redundancy in short sentences. Consider alternatives like "yet eventually" or "however in the end" for nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet eventually

Replaces "but then" with "yet", implying contrast, and "finally" with "eventually", softening the sense of immediacy.

though ultimately

Replaces "but then" with "though", implying concession, and "finally" with "ultimately", emphasizing the final result.

however in the end

Substitutes "but then" with "however", a stronger contrast, and "finally" with "in the end", focusing on the ultimate outcome.

still eventually

This option replaces "but then" with still, but "finally" is replaced with "eventually" softening the sense of immediacy.

nonetheless at last

Employs "nonetheless" for a stronger contrast and "at last" to highlight the arrival of the final stage.

but subsequently

This option substitutes "finally" with "subsequently", which suggests a logical sequence, making the phrase more formal.

still in conclusion

Uses "still" to indicate persistence despite obstacles, and "in conclusion" to directly signal the end result.

yet after everything

Highlights the preceding efforts with "after everything", emphasizing the finality of the outcome.

but in the end result

Adds redundancy for emphasis by specifying "end result" instead of just "finally".

however after all is said and done

Offers a more verbose and emphatic conclusion, suitable for formal contexts.

FAQs

What does "but then finally" mean?

The phrase "but then finally" indicates that after a period of uncertainty, opposition, or delay, something eventually happens or a conclusion is reached.

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

You can use "but then finally" to show a contrast followed by a resolution, such as: "The team faced many setbacks, "but then finally", they achieved their goal."

What are some alternatives to "but then finally"?

Alternatives include "yet eventually", "however in the end", or "though ultimately". These phrases can provide similar meaning with slight differences in emphasis.

Is "but then finally" formal or informal?

"But then finally" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "nonetheless at last" may be preferred in highly formal writing.