finalize

American  

[fahyn-l-ahyz] / ˈfaɪn lˌaɪz /

especially British, finalise

verb (used with object)

finalized, finalizing

1. to put into final form; complete all the details of.

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verb (used without object)

finalized, finalizing

1. to complete an agreement; conclude negotiations.

   We should finalize by the end of the week.

finalize British  

/ ˈfaɪnəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to put into final form; settle

   to finalize plans for the merger

2. (intr) to complete arrangements or negotiations; reach agreement on a transaction

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Spelling

See -ize.

Usage

Although finalize has been in widespread use for some time, many speakers and writers still prefer to use complete, conclude , or make final , esp in formal contexts

Other Word Forms

• finalization noun
• finalizer noun
• unfinalized adjective

Etymology

Origin of finalize

First recorded in 1920–25; final + -ize

Example Sentences

Long-term negotiations are still new to hyperscalers more accustomed to two- or three-year agreements, Amicucci said, so they may take time to finalize.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

But that question goes unanswered in light of their task; they have a comeback album to finalize, and too many people to please.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Jurors on Monday in the civil wrongful death lawsuit began hearing evidence after Buck failed to finalize and sign a 2024 settlement agreement with Moore’s mother, LaTisha Nixon.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2026

In Fortescue’s 1H results, the miner says it expects to finalize the takeover of Alta shortly.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026

Before I could finalize a plan we were at the front of the line with our papers.

From "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys

Related Words

• agree
• conclude
• decide
• settle
• work out
• wrap up