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

One business owner “was trying different methodologies, and it ended up just being waiting and trying over and over again, and it eventually took and didn’t show any failed attempts,” she said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

The DA's office could eventually seek the death penalty in the case, he added.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk said that the hardware in the company’s cars would eventually allow all of its cars to drive themselves.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

That should eventually unleash new stock market highs.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

This particular tunnel did not contradict the notion, for eventually the five explorers emerged into what seemed to be a dense, velvety soft thicket.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

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