the final say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the final say' is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually means the ultimate decision or authority regarding a situation. For example, "The mayor has the final say in all matters regarding city government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But they will have the final say.

The Economist

Congress will have the final say.

The New York Times

Will their doubters have the final say?

The New York Times

Regulators will have the final say.

The New York Times

The fans would have the final say.

The New York Times - Sports

Quirky's staff has the final say.

The New York Times

Mr Hatoyama will have the final say.

The Economist

"I will have the final say".

The New York Times

He has the final say.

The New York Times

The people must have the final say.

The Guardian - Opinion

She always has the final say.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the final say" when you want to emphasize ultimate authority and decision-making power within a particular context.

Common error

While "the final say" is widely acceptable, consider using more nuanced language in informal conversations to avoid sounding overly authoritative or dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the final say" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the ultimate authority or decision-making power in a given situation. As Ludwig AI shows, it is widely used across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the final say" is a common and grammatically correct phrase that signifies ultimate authority or decision-making power. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across diverse contexts, including news, business, and general communication. When writing, use "the final say" to clearly indicate who holds the ultimate authority. Remember that while the phrase is generally acceptable, consider more nuanced language in informal settings. Alternatives include "the last word", "the ultimate decision", and "the deciding vote".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the last word

This alternative focuses on having the concluding statement or decision, similar to having ultimate authority.

the ultimate decision

This alternative emphasizes the conclusive nature of the decision, highlighting its finality.

the deciding vote

This phrase specifically refers to the vote that determines the outcome, highlighting the decisive power.

the last call

Implies the last opportunity to decide or act, conveying a sense of finality and authority.

the conclusive voice

Focuses on the impact and authority of the speaker or entity rendering the final decision.

the power of veto

This alternative indicates the authority to reject or prevent a decision, aligning with ultimate control.

the authority to decide

Emphasizes the formal right and power to make the final decision.

the casting vote

Highlights the importance of the vote that resolves a tie or makes a final decision.

the power to determine

This phrase focuses on the ability to influence and control the final outcome.

the overriding authority

Indicates a higher level of control that surpasses other opinions or decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "the final say" in a sentence?

You can use "the final say" to indicate who has the ultimate authority in a decision, such as "The CEO has "the final say" on all major investments."

What's another way to say "the final say"?

Alternatives to "the final say" include "the last word", "the ultimate decision", or "the deciding vote", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "the final say" in formal writing?

Yes, "the final say" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing decision-making processes or authority structures in business, politics, or law.

Who typically has "the final say" in a company?

The person or entity with "the final say" varies by company structure but is often the CEO, board of directors, or a designated executive with decision-making authority.