Here are some synonyms of "lastly" and their explanations:
1. Finally
- Explanation: "Finally" is a very common synonym for "lastly". It indicates the end of a sequence, process, or list. It often implies a sense of conclusion or finality. For example, "We visited several museums, had a delicious meal, and finally, we watched a beautiful sunset." Here, "finally" shows that the act of watching the sunset is the last in a series of activities. It's used to signal the end of a narrative or a set of steps, just like "lastly".
2. Eventually
- Explanation: "Eventually" means in the end, after a period of time or a series of events. It emphasizes the idea that something occurs after a progression or a delay. For example, "He tried many different jobs, faced numerous challenges, and eventually found his true calling." In this sentence, "eventually" highlights that the discovery of his true calling came after a long process. While it can be used somewhat like "lastly", it puts more emphasis on the journey or the time elapsed before the final event.
3. Ultimately
- Explanation: "Ultimately" means at the most basic or fundamental level; in the end, it refers to the final or conclusive element. For example, "We considered many options, but ultimately, we decided to go with the simplest solution." It shows that after considering all the possibilities, the final decision was reached. It's similar to "lastly" in that it indicates the final choice or action in a series, but it also has a connotation of arriving at the most essential or decisive point.
4. In the end
- Explanation: "In the end" is a more casual way of saying "lastly". It's used to describe the final result or the last part of a story or a process. For example, "They argued for hours about what movie to watch. In the end, they chose a comedy." This phrase clearly shows the final outcome after a period of discussion or indecision, much like "lastly" would when listing a sequence of events and coming to the final one.
5. At last
- Explanation: "At last" expresses relief or a sense of satisfaction that something has finally happened. For example, "After a long and tiring journey, at last, we arrived at our destination." It emphasizes the long - awaited nature of the final event. While it's a synonym for "lastly", it has a stronger emotional tone, suggesting that the end has been eagerly anticipated.