 What's the difference? Finally versus at last. This short video will tell you the difference between the phrases finally and at last, along with how and when to use them. The lesson is designed for students and teachers of English as a second language. A common mistake students make especially in writing is to use the phrase at last when they really mean finally. These phrases are not the same. Here's what they mean. Finally means the last item in a sequence or series. Similar words are last or lastly. Finally follows words like first, second, or secondly, third, or thirdly, next, then, and so on. At last means I've been waiting for a long time for this and now it's here. Do not use this phrase to indicate the final item in a series. Sequencing. In writing, we often use words or phrases to indicate order or sequence. For example, we say or write first, next, then, finally, last, or first of all, second, or secondly, third, or thirdly, finally, lastly. Do not say or write at last for the last item. You might sometimes hear the idiomatic phrase last but not least, but never at last but not least. So where do we use at last? We use it when we have been anticipating something for a long time and it finally arrives. You're here at last. At last, you're here. Can we use finally in these situations? Yes, you can, but be careful. It usually comes between the subject and verb. You finally got here. I've been waiting all morning. Depending on intonation, finally can sometimes carry a negative meaning. You finally made it. Or you finally arrived. What took you so long? Finally can sometimes indicate exhaustion or exasperation at the stress of working or waiting. I finally finished the project. What a relief. It's been tough getting everything done. Whereas, at last, usually focuses on the positive result or payoff. For example, rest and relaxation at last. I have earned this wonderful reward. So, do you finally get it? Oh, now I see. Or do you get it at last? This feels great. Hope that was helpful. Please give us a thumbs up if you liked or learned from this video. And remember to subscribe to our channel. Thanks for watching. If you have ideas for our next video, please submit them at the link below.