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

Council Member Elizabeth Villafranca, who was first elected last year, eventually became one of many Latino candidates to win a seat.

From Salon • May 7, 2026

When they took his hat, he pleaded for its return, and the robbers eventually tossed it back.

From Science Daily • May 7, 2026

Speaking to Bloomberg, Fernandes remained defiant on hedging fuel costs, saying he thinks they'll eventually calm down.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

Workers have drained the tunnel of the water and foam used to extinguish the fire, and plan to search it with drones, robots and eventually, people.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Hugo spoke to him again, and eventually the man shrugged and indicated for us to go in.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler

Related Words

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