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final
/ˈfaɪnəl/
last in a series
This is the final exam of the semester.
The exam is the last one before the semester ends.
general
Coming at the end of a series; last.
The final chapter of the book was the most exciting.
The last chapter was the most exciting part.
She passed her final driving test yesterday.
She passed the last test in her driving course.
Used for events, exams, or stages that conclude a sequence.
formal
Conclusive; decisive.
The judge's ruling was final and could not be appealed.
The judge's decision was definitive and unchangeable.
Often used in legal, administrative, or authoritative contexts.
general
Pertaining to the end of a period or process.
The final score of the game was 3-2.
The score at the end of the game was 3-2.
Common in sports, performances, or timed events.
Collocations
final examlast test in a coursefinal decisionconclusive choicefinal draftlast version of a documentfinal countdowncountdown to the end of something
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid redundancy
Do not pair 'final' with words like 'last' or 'ultimate' (e.g., 'final last exam' is incorrect). Use 'final' alone for clarity.
Gold Rule
Position matters
In sentences, 'final' typically appears before the noun it describes (e.g., 'the final chapter').
Word Origin
From Latin *finalis* ('pertaining to the end'), from *finis* ('end'). Entered English in the 14th century via Old French *final*.
Usage Notes
As an adjective, 'final' often precedes the noun it modifies (e.g., 'final exam'). Avoid redundancy like 'final conclusion' unless emphasizing finality.
Word Breakdown
fin-
end or boundary
root-al
relating to
suffixEnglish Dictionary