final demise

USAGE SUMMARY

'final demise' is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It refers to the ultimate or last ending of something or someone. Example: The final demise of the company was inevitable after years of financial troubles. In this sentence, 'final demise' is used to describe the ultimate end or downfall of the company.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Perhaps not all that long after XP's final demise.

The Economist

The final demise of the carbonate buildup occurred in the late Early Miocene.

Sedimentary Geology

If a recession doesn't intervene, the gherkin may herald the final demise of the Canaletto effect.

The Economist

Its final demise, like the manicule's, was caused by the advent of the printing press.

The New Yorker

The SFO will make no comment on who is to blame for MG Rover's final demise.

The Guardian - Business

After the caliphate's final demise, ISIS and Al Qaeda face existential decisions.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

After a little rejoicing over what seems to be the final political demise of Slobodan Milosevic, we should consider the broader meaning of his imminent departure.

The New York Times

Final sites of demise were likely over the mountains of Donegal, Leitrim and Connemara.

Quaternary Science Reviews

Final pay schemes' demise has been brought about by factors including legislation; ever increasing admin costs; increased longevity making annuity purchase more expensive; the reduced numbers of employees staying with one employer long term".

Independent

With their coach's handwriting on the wall, the Devils unraveled tonight in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals, completing their demise, which began when they squandered the chance to win the Cup at home Thursday in Game 6.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite this, it remains a money-purchase arrangement and is much less generous than the final-salary scheme, says John Ralfe, a pensions consultant.The accelerating demise of final-salary schemes provided by companies contrasts with their rude health in the public sector.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "final demise" when you want to emphasize the ultimate and irreversible end of something, especially when there's been a process of decline or struggle leading up to it.

Common error

Avoid using "final demise" in overly casual or informal situations; it can sound unnecessarily dramatic. Opt for simpler terms like "end" or "failure" in everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "final demise" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it's a correct and commonly used phrase. Examples from Ludwig show it describing the end of various entities, such as industries, political systems, and even species.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

32%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "final demise" is a noun phrase used to describe the ultimate end or termination of something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase, predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, with a neutral to formal register. While the phrase is considered correct, it's best to avoid overuse in informal contexts, as it can sound overly dramatic. When seeking alternative phrases, consider options like "ultimate downfall" or "complete extinction", depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey. "Final demise" is most appropriate when highlighting the irreversible nature of an end after a period of decline.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ultimate downfall

Replaces "demise" with "downfall", emphasizing a loss of status or power.

complete extinction

Focuses on the idea of something ceasing to exist entirely.

total collapse

Suggests a sudden and often catastrophic failure.

absolute end

A more straightforward and general term for the cessation of something.

terminal decline

Highlights the process of gradual deterioration leading to the end.

last breath

A more figurative expression signifying the very end of something's existence.

bitter end

Emphasizes the negative or unfortunate circumstances surrounding the end.

conclusive termination

Highlights the definitive and irreversible nature of the ending.

eventual cessation

Stresses the fact that something will eventually come to an end.

final chapter

Implies the ending of a story or phase, rather than a complete annihilation.

FAQs

How can I use "final demise" in a sentence?

You can use "final demise" to refer to the end of something, like a company, a political system, or even a species. For instance: "The introduction of streaming services contributed to the "final demise" of many video rental stores."

What are some alternatives to "final demise"?

Some alternatives include "ultimate downfall", "complete extinction", or "total collapse". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "final demise" more formal than "end"?

Yes, "final demise" is generally more formal and carries a stronger sense of conclusion and often, negativity or loss compared to the simpler word "end".

What distinguishes "final demise" from "decline"?

"Decline" refers to a gradual weakening or deterioration, whereas "final demise" signifies the ultimate end or death after that decline. You can have a decline without a "final demise", but the latter implies the completion of the former.