final words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "final words" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone's last statements or remarks before an event, conclusion, or departure. Example: "As he stood at the podium, he took a deep breath and shared his final words with the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Any final words?

The New York Times

NP: final words?

The New Yorker

The final words.

The Guardian

Her final words.

The New York Times

Two final words of advice.

Columbia University

Any final words from Samantha?

Cornell University

His final words were: "Thanks a lot".

Independent

They are the novel's final words.

The New Yorker

"Those were his final words?

The New York Times

McVeigh had no final words.

The Guardian

His final words of advice?

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional weight of "final words" and use them respectfully and sensitively in writing.

Common error

Avoid overusing "final words" in situations where a simple concluding remark would suffice. Reserve it for moments of genuine significance or closure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "final words" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness in written English. It typically references the last statements made before an event or conclusion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "final words" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the last statements or remarks made before a significant event or conclusion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for use in written English. While often associated with solemn occasions, it is used across a range of contexts from news reporting to academic discussions. Understanding its significance and using it with sensitivity can enhance clarity and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

last words

This alternative is a more succinct synonym, replacing "final" with "last".

closing remarks

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of concluding a speech or presentation.

concluding statement

This alternative highlights the formal and definitive nature of the statement.

parting words

This alternative emphasizes the act of leaving or departing after speaking.

last testament

This alternative suggests a more significant and enduring message.

swan song

This alternative implies that the statement is the person's final creative work or public act.

valedictory address

This alternative specifically refers to a speech given at a graduation ceremony.

ultimate message

This alternative emphasizes the importance of the message being conveyed.

dying declaration

This alternative refers to a statement made by a person who believes they are about to die, often used in legal contexts.

last will and testament

This alternative refers to a legal document outlining how a person's assets should be distributed after their death.

FAQs

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

You can use "final words" to describe the last things someone said before a significant event, such as, "Her "final words" were a message of hope for the future."

What's a good alternative to "final words"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "closing remarks", "parting words", or "concluding statement".

Are "final words" always related to death?

No, "final words" can refer to the last thing someone says in various contexts, such as before a journey, a performance, or the end of a meeting. It's not exclusively related to death, although that is a common association.

What is the impact of reporting someone's "final words"?

Reporting someone's "final words" can have a significant emotional impact, as it often carries a sense of closure, reflection, or last wishes. It's important to handle such information with sensitivity and respect for the individual and their loved ones.