end

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "end" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the end of a certain period of time, the end of a process, the end of a discussion, or the end of an event. For example, "Let's bring this meeting to an end".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But to what end?

The New York Times

"I will always treasure my opportunity to have done that with you, and I will always regret the circumstances that brought that work with you to an end".

The New York Times

In the end, they could not.

The Guardian - Sport

End of story".

The New York Times

But that was not the end of it.

The New York Times

These tragedies must end.

The New York Times

And as we meet here, we again declare that the regime of Bashar al-Assad must come to an end so that the suffering of the Syrian people can stop and a new dawn can begin.

The New York Times

At the end of the day, I think there are multiple theories out there on how the universe was created and I think this is a country where people should have the opportunity to teach them all.

The New York Times

And to what end?

The New York Times

Keneally said her involvement in the proposal came at the "pointy end" and what was presented to her was a bad cabinet minute.

The Guardian

Although there was disappointment that neither Mike Leigh's much-fancied Topsy-Turvy, Anthony Minghella's The Talented Mr Ripley, nor Neil Jordan's The End of the Affair made it into the frame for best picture, the Brits did well overall.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a desired outcome or purpose, consider using "end" with phrases like "to what end?" to prompt critical evaluation of the objective.

Common error

Avoid using "end" when "the end" is required for grammatical correctness. For example, use "at the end of the day" instead of "at end of the day".

Linguistic Context

The word "end" functions primarily as a noun referring to the final part of something, or as a verb meaning to terminate. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identifies the word as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, examples like "at the end of the day" and "the end of the war" illustrate its use. As a verb, it appears in phrases like "these tragedies must end".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "end" functions as both a noun and a verb, commonly denoting termination, conclusion, or objective. Ludwig AI validates its correct and versatile usage in English. It's found very frequently in news and media, with neutral tone, with uses ranging from physical endpoints to abstract conclusions. While generally correct, confusing it with "the end" is a common mistake. Consider alternatives like "conclusion" or "termination" for stylistic variety. Ultimately, understanding the context is crucial for effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

finish

A common synonym for "end", implying the completion of a task or activity.

conclusion

Replaces "end" to emphasize the final part of a process or event.

close

Suggests the bringing to a conclusion or a state of completion.

termination

Suggests a more formal or definitive stopping point than "end".

cessation

Indicates a formal or abrupt ending, often used in technical or legal contexts.

final stage

Highlights the last part of something.

culmination

Highlights the final, decisive point after a period of development.

resolution

Emphasizes the solving of a problem or the final decision in a matter.

expiration

Specifically denotes the termination of a valid period or agreement.

denouement

Refers to the final part of a play, movie, or narrative in which the strands of the plot are drawn together and resolved.

FAQs

How can I use "end" in a sentence?

You can use "end" in various contexts, such as "The movie will end soon", "What is the end goal?", or "We're at the end of our resources".

What's the difference between "end" and "conclusion"?

"End" generally refers to a cessation or final point, while "conclusion" often refers to a judgment or decision reached after deliberation.

What can I say instead of "end of story"?

Alternatives include "that's it", "period", or "no further discussion" depending on the context. Note that "end of story" is often used to emphasize that a point is non-negotiable.

Is it correct to say "in the end" or "at the end"?

Both are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "In the end" refers to the final outcome or result after a process, while "at the end" indicates a specific point in time or location.