finished article

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "finished article" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to something or someone that has been fully developed, completed, or perfected. For example, "After months of hard work, the prototype was finally a finished article."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Essentially, the entire heated, finished article becomes one large molecule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"As a player you are never the finished article.

The Guardian - Sport

"I'm nowhere near the finished article.

BBC

"I wasn't anywhere near the finished article last season.

BBC

They are still nowhere near the finished article.

BBC

But with a big club like Chelsea you want the finished article.

BBC

Is he the finished article?

The Guardian - Sport

He's not the finished article as yet.

The Guardian - Sport

Of course it isn't the finished article.

The Guardian - Sport

For us, economic success – that's not the finished article.

Independent

He is a good season off being the finished article.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "finished article" to refer to something that is completely developed or finalized, whether it's a physical product, a skill, or a plan. For example, "After years of training, she was finally the "finished article" as a marathon runner."

Common error

Avoid using "finished article" to describe something that is merely adequate or acceptable. The phrase implies a high degree of refinement and completeness, not just meeting minimum requirements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finished article" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. It describes something that has reached its final, completed state. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "finished article" is a very common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe something that is completely developed or finalized. As noted by Ludwig AI, it conveys a sense of readiness and preparedness. Predominantly found in News & Media, its usage extends to encyclopedias and formal business contexts, carrying a neutral to slightly formal tone. Related alternatives include "completed product" and "final version". When using the phrase "finished article", remember that it suggests a high degree of refinement and completeness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completed product

Replaces "article" with "product", focusing on the end result of a production process.

final version

Emphasizes the stage of completion, suggesting that earlier versions existed.

fully developed item

More descriptive, highlighting the extent of development rather than just completion.

culmination

Focuses on the final point in a development or evolution.

end result

Highlights the outcome or consequence of a process.

ultimate creation

Suggests a high level of skill or artistry in the completion.

polished piece

Implies refinement and attention to detail in the final product.

consummate work

Emphasizes exceptional skill and thoroughness in the completed item.

realized ambition

Suggests a goal has been achieved through the completion of the article.

ultimate expression

Highlights that the work represents the peak achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "finished article" in a sentence?

You can use "finished article" to describe something or someone that has reached a state of completion or perfection. For example, "The new software is the "finished article", ready for distribution."

What is a good substitute for "finished article"?

Alternatives to "finished article" include "completed product", "final version", or "fully developed item" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "finished article"?

It's appropriate when describing something that is entirely complete, refined, and ready for its intended purpose. This applies to products, skills, or even strategic plans.

Is "finished article" only used for tangible objects?

No, "finished article" can also describe intangible things like a skill, a strategy, or a plan, implying that it is completely developed and perfected. For example, "After years of training, he became the "finished article" as a public speaker."