at last: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘at last’ mean?
The idiom "at last" means an event or situation has finally happened or been achieved after a long wait or delay.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "when all is said and done" means that after everything has been considered or taken into account, and all actions have been taken, the final result or outcome will become clear.
The idiom "last word" refers to the final thing that is said or done in a discussion or argument. It implies the idea of having the ultimate say or control over a situation, often in a way that asserts authority or dominance.
The idiom "last thing" means the final action or event that occurs before a particular time or event. It emphasizes the timing or order in which something happens. It can also refer to the least important or least desirable action or event in a sequence.
An idiom that means the final or last gathering or collection of something or someone, often used to express the end or conclusion of a particular event, activity, or period of time.
The idiom "last resort" refers to the final option or action taken when all others have failed or been exhausted.
The idiom "last resort" is a popular expression in English. It means the final option or ultimate course of action in a given situation. The term originated from the legal concept and has since expanded to encompass a broader meaning in everyday language.
The idiom "last minute" refers to the final moments before a deadline or event. It suggests that something is done or happens with very little time or notice remaining, often causing rushed or stressful situations.
Last-ditch is an adjective that describes a final, desperate attempt made in dire situations. It signifies the last available option or resource. The term has its roots in military tactics, specifically in reference to defensive strategies on the battlefield.
The idiom "it's about time" is used to express that something should have happened sooner or that someone is overdue for a certain action or event.
The idiom "in the final analysis" means that something is being considered or judged after all the facts or information have been examined and taken into account.
The idiom "get there" means to achieve a goal or reach a desired destination. It implies successfully completing a task or journey.
The Unveiling of Deep Roots
The idiom "at last" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It signifies the end of a wait or anticipation and is often used to convey a sense of relief or satisfaction when something long-awaited or desired finally happens or arrives.
One key aspect of this idiom is its temporal nature. "At last" emphasizes the notion of a prolonged period of time leading up to a particular event or outcome. It implies a sense of impatience or longing for something to happen and is often accompanied by a feeling of relief or fulfillment once the desired outcome is achieved.
The origins of this idiom can be traced back to Old English usage of the word "last," which initially referred to the act of remaining or surviving. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the final or ultimate occurrence of something.
In contemporary usage, "at last" is employed in various contexts and situations. It can be used to express personal triumph, such as achieving a long-awaited goal or realizing a dream. It can also convey a collective sense of relief or resolution, such as the end of a conflict or a challenging period.
Furthermore, the idiom can indicate the culmination of a sequence of events or actions. Expressions like "at long last" or "at last, but not least" intensify the emphasis on the passage of time or the significance of the final result.
However, it's important to note that the meaning of "at last" can vary depending on the context. While it generally conveys a positive sentiment, it can sarcastically or ironically express frustration or disappointment, accompanied by a tone of resignation rather than joy.
The idiom "at long last" is a variant of "at last" that further emphasizes the passage of time or the significance of the final result. It intensifies the feeling of relief and satisfaction when something long-awaited or desired finally happens or arrives.
Similarly, the phrase "and finally" is related to "at last" in that it signifies the end of a sequence. It indicates that the final and most significant event or outcome is about to be mentioned or has occurred.
"Last thing" is another related idiom that implies the final occurrence or action in a series. It can be used to emphasize a particular event or action as being the ultimate or most important one in a given context.
The idiom "fall at the last hurdle" can also be linked to "at last." It metaphorically refers to failing or experiencing a setback just before reaching one's goal or desired outcome. It suggests that success was within reach, but something unexpected or challenging prevented it from being achieved.
The idiom "at last" signifies the end of a wait or anticipation. Its usage spans a wide range of contexts and can convey a sense of relief, satisfaction, or even frustration. Related idioms like "at long last," "and finally," "last thing," and "fall at the last hurdle" further enhance the understanding and usage of "at last" in various situations. This versatile expression enables us to articulate the end of a waiting period and encompasses a wide array of emotions and possibilities.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "at last" can be used in a sentence:
- She searched for her keys for hours, but at last, she found them in her jacket pocket.
- After months of planning, the concert finally took place last night. At last, all the hard work paid off.
- The long wait is over, and at last, my vacation has begun!
More "Time" idioms
