reach the end of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reach the end of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to completing a task, journey, or process, indicating that one has arrived at the final point. Example: "After months of hard work, we finally reached the end of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They reach the end of the road.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Soon, though, I will reach the end of my rope.

The New York Times

I did not reach the end of my road.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And so we reach the end of part 1.

The Guardian - Sport

You have to reach the end of a sentence sometimes".

The New York Times

And I suspect when I reach the end of life, I'll be OK with it.

The Guardian

His goal for the day was simple: to reach the end of the universe.

The New Yorker

[cartoon id= a17701"] "Someday," Zineb said, "we will reach the end of this tunnel.

The New Yorker

Hong's online name is Shi Shu, which means "to reach the end of the books".

The New Yorker

Eventually you reach the end of the path at a narrow, tarred road.

The Guardian - Travel

But it becomes harder to shake when you reach the end of "Satin Island".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reach the end of" to signify the completion of a tangible process or a journey, whether literal or metaphorical. For instance, "They reached the end of their journey after days of travel" or "We need to reach the end of this project by next week."

Common error

Avoid using "reach the end of" when discussing abstract concepts without a clear endpoint. Instead of saying "They reached the end of understanding", which is vague, opt for phrases like "achieved a comprehensive understanding" or "gained full insight".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reach the end of" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating completion or arrival at a final point. Ludwig's examples show its use across various domains, affirming its role in denoting the conclusion of a process, journey, or lifespan.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

35%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reach the end of" is a versatile and commonly used expression signifying the completion or termination of a process, journey, or lifespan. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While generally neutral in register, its appropriateness can vary slightly based on the desired level of formality. It's crucial to use it accurately, especially avoiding abstract contexts without a clear endpoint. Understanding the nuance between "reach the end of" and similar phrases allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come to the conclusion of

Implies a more formal or intellectual arrival at a final point, often associated with reasoning or analysis.

arrive at the termination of

This suggests a definitive and often predetermined endpoint has been met.

attain the limit of

Focuses on reaching a boundary or maximum extent, implying a constraint or restriction.

conclude

A more concise and general way of saying something has finished or come to a close.

finish

A basic and commonly used term, indicating the completion of something without specifying how it was achieved.

complete

Similar to 'finish' but often implies a more thorough or comprehensive accomplishment.

draw to a close

Evokes a gradual or gentle ending, often used in narrative or descriptive contexts.

get to the bottom of

Implies a thorough investigation until the underlying cause or truth is discovered.

finalize

Focuses on the act of making something complete and ready, often in a formal or official setting.

wrap up

Suggests a tidy or efficient conclusion, often used in project management or organizational contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "reach the end of" in a sentence?

The phrase "reach the end of" is used to indicate the completion or termination of something. For example, "After a long hike, we finally "reached the end of" the trail" or "The students "reached the end of" their exams."

What are some alternatives to "reach the end of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "come to the conclusion of", "arrive at the termination of", "attain the limit of", or simply "finish".

Is it appropriate to use "reach the end of" in formal writing?

Yes, "reach the end of" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when describing the completion of a process or project. However, consider alternatives like "conclude" or "finalize" for a more sophisticated tone depending on context.

What's the difference between "reach the end of" and "get to the bottom of"?

"Reach the end of" implies completing a task or journey, while "get to the bottom of" suggests discovering the underlying cause or truth of a matter. For example, you might "reach the end of a book", but you "get to the bottom of a mystery".