finish on a good note

USAGE SUMMARY

"finish on a good note" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to ending something on a positive note. For example, "Let's try to finish the project on a good note so we can all be proud of our work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"We just wanted to finish on a good note," Kidd said.

The New York Times - Sports

"[Since] the Faces never finished on a good note... it would be nice to finish on a good note, and that would be that".

The Guardian - Music

We all want to finish on a good note and we have done the work to take him to July 9.

The Guardian - Sport

I can concentrate on trying to finish on a good note at Hull and then think about St Helens".

BBC

"The focus this week will be trying to finish on a good note [at Crystal Palace] because I've lost the last game of the season before and it's not nice".

BBC

Always finish on a good note.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Not finishing on a good note before the break, the 2-1 loss against the Columbus Crew was frustrating but the Impact is still in the playoff race.

The Guardian - Sport

"She's got a few aches and pains but we always wanted to make sure she finished on a good note.

BBC

Stop on a good note!

WikiHow

I thought 'let's just finish off on a good note'".

BBC

Close on a good note.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the context supports the idea of leaving a positive final impression. The phrase implies that the manner of ending is significant.

Common error

While "finish on a good note" is a useful expression, avoid using it repeatedly in a short span. Vary your language by using synonyms like "end positively" or "conclude successfully" to maintain the reader's interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finish on a good note" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of ending something—a project, event, or relationship—in a positive or successful manner. Ludwig examples showcase its use in sports, personal endeavors, and professional contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "finish on a good note" is a common idiom used to describe ending something positively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Wiki sources. While there are semantically related alternatives like "end on a high point" or "close out well", it's essential to avoid overusing any single phrase and vary your language to maintain reader engagement. When using this phrase, ensure that the context supports a positive and memorable conclusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

end on a high point

Similar in meaning but uses 'high point' instead of 'good note'.

close out well

Emphasizes a favorable conclusion, using more casual language.

end positively

Focuses on the positive result of the ending, omitting the specific reference to a 'note'.

finish strong

Emphasizes the effort and impact at the end.

conclude successfully

Highlights the successful completion, rather than the manner of ending.

wrap things up nicely

Suggests a neat and pleasing conclusion, adding a touch of informality.

leave a positive impression

Shifts the focus to the lasting effect of the ending.

bring to a satisfying end

Focuses on the contentment derived from the conclusion.

complete favorably

Highlights the advantageous nature of the completion.

exit gracefully

Suggests a smooth and elegant departure or ending.

FAQs

What does it mean to "finish on a good note"?

To "finish on a good note" means to end something, such as a project, relationship, or period of time, in a positive, memorable, and successful way. It emphasizes the importance of a favorable final impression.

What can I say instead of "finish on a good note"?

You can use alternatives like "end positively", "end on a high point", or "close out well" depending on the context.

Is it better to "start on a good note" or "finish on a good note"?

Both are important, but they serve different purposes. Starting on a good note sets a positive tone, while "finish on a good note" ensures a lasting positive impression and a sense of accomplishment.

How can I "finish on a good note" in a challenging situation?

Focus on what you can control, strive for a positive outcome despite the difficulties, and aim to leave a favorable final impression. Even small gestures of goodwill can help you "finish on a good note".