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

Meanwhile, the Lakers showed some seriously good stuff early, coming out firing in the first quarter, scoring on their first three shots, eight of their first nine, and eventually 16 of their first 20.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

He eventually dropped that case, though, and in our conversations, he wanted to focus on the positive things that happened after his detention.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2026

The race was initially halted by a red flag before it was eventually suspended an hour later once the severity of the the multi-car collision became apparent.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

The company, which will eventually invest in stores again, is hosting trunk shows —where designers bring their collections to particular stores—and where the seamstresses will work with customers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Coal made note of it, knowing eventually he would have to figure out how to weave through their choreography, or find the best way to clear out of their path.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste

Related Words

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