eventually

American  

[ih-ven-choo-uh-lee] / ɪˈvɛn tʃu ə li /

adverb

1. finally; ultimately; at some later time.

   Eventually we will own the house free and clear.

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eventually British  

/ ɪˈvɛntʃʊəlɪ /

adverb

1. at the very end; finally

2. (as sentence modifier) after a long time or long delay

   eventually, he arrived

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Etymology

Origin of eventually

First recorded in 1650–60; eventual + -ly

Explanation

Eventually refers to an unspecific time when something will be completed, and it usually suggests it won't be done soon. Think of eventually being said with a big sigh, as though the speaker knows that it will take a long time before something will be finished. Still, it does allow for the hope that, although it might not be anytime soon, it will be done at last — a promise fulfilled. Not now, maybe, but eventually.

Example Sentences

Many analysts think stockpiles will eventually settle higher than they were before the war, as countries will want a larger cushion against future energy shocks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

Researchers believe that combining Compound 10 with existing Alzheimer's medications could eventually provide greater benefits and improve quality of life for patients.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

“I still plan to take over Starz, and I will eventually get control of Starz.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

They eventually found a first aid kit to treat his open wound, but there was only a single bandage.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

In the nineteenth century, people wrote anyway, in the hopes that communications to loved ones would eventually show up, even if months or years late.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

Related Words

• finally
• in the course of time
• one day
• someday
• sooner or later
• ultimately