finally however

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "finally however" is not correct as it combines two contrasting ideas in a way that is not typically used in written English.
It can be used when transitioning to a concluding thought that contrasts with previous statements, but it should be rephrased for clarity. Example: "The project faced many challenges; finally, however, we managed to complete it on time."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Finally, however, he snaps.

The Economist

Finally, however, Kalinichenko was rewarded.

The Guardian - Sport

Finally, however, salaries are rising.

The Guardian - Money

Finally, however, the wind began to cooperate.

The New York Times - Magazine

Now, finally, however, things seem to be coming together.

The Guardian

Finally, however, in 2013, Kerry's dream became a reality.

The Guardian - Opinion

Finally, however, she decided she had had enough.

The Guardian

Finally, however, he could stay silent no longer.

The Guardian - Film

Finally, however, the deviser of these nonfictions is a novelist.

The New York Times - Books

Finally, however, two months ago, I managed to reach her.

The New York Times

Finally, however, Fox said yes, and the first episode aired in September 2012.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For improved clarity, consider replacing "finally however" with a single, more precise transition word or phrase such as "ultimately though" or "in the end yet".

Common error

Avoid using "finally however" because it combines two words that express contrast and conclusion. Using both can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Opt for a single, stronger connector.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial conjunction. "Finally however" functions as a transitional phrase, aiming to signal a concluding point while introducing a contrast or qualification. Despite its frequency, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable, advising to use a single word or phrase to avoid redundancy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "finally however" is frequently encountered, Ludwig AI deems it grammatically questionable because it is a redundant construction. Its function is to signal a conclusion while introducing a contrast. Though it appears in various contexts, especially in News & Media, consider substituting it with more concise alternatives like "ultimately though" or "in the end yet" for improved clarity and impact in your writing. Despite its frequent usage, remember that choosing a single, stronger connector can make your writing more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ultimately though

Emphasizes the concluding aspect with a contrasting element.

in the end yet

Highlights the final outcome with a touch of contrast.

eventually nevertheless

Stresses the eventual occurrence despite potential obstacles.

after all though

Indicates a concluding point that contrasts with previous expectations.

in conclusion however

Clearly marks the ending, introducing a contrasting viewpoint.

to conclude but

Signals the conclusion, presenting a contrasting idea.

in the final analysis yet

Emphasizes a comprehensive final assessment with a hint of contrast.

lastly but

Indicates the final item in a list, followed by a contrasting element.

all things considered though

Suggests an overall assessment taking everything into account, introducing a contrast.

in summary nevertheless

Presents a summary followed by a contrasting point.

FAQs

How can I use "finally however" correctly?

While "finally however" is frequently used, it is considered grammatically incorrect. For correctness, try replacing it with a single transition such as "ultimately" or "eventually".

What are some alternatives to "finally however"?

Instead of "finally however", you can use phrases like "ultimately though", "in the end yet", or "eventually nevertheless" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use both "finally" and "however" together?

Yes, using both "finally" and "however" together can be seen as redundant because they both serve as discourse markers that transition to a concluding thought that may contrast with previous information. Consider choosing just one for a more concise statement.

What's the difference between "finally however" and "ultimately"?

"Finally however" combines a concluding marker with a contrast, while "ultimately" simply suggests a final result or conclusion after a process. Using "ultimately" avoids the potential redundancy of "finally however".