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

That asking price was steadily lowered over the next 21 months, eventually falling to $6.99 million in March of this year.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

The Naked Ape was an overnight sensation, eventually selling 20 million copies.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

For decades, the federal government supported basic scientific research, hoping for breakthroughs that would eventually reach industry and the military.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

That should eventually unleash new stock market highs.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

The road eventually came to an end, with only a steep footpath that led to the letters.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

Related Words

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