light at the end of the tunnel

Idioms

The end of a difficult situation or task, the solution to a difficult problem. For example, It's taken three years to effect this merger, but we're finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. This metaphoric expression dates from the 1800s, but became widespread only in the mid-1900s.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Even without that rosy scenario, traders can already see some light at the end of the tunnel.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

“We see light at the end of the tunnel for both gold and silver,” says Cardillo.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

“There may be light at the end of the tunnel, as ‘whales’ appear to be moving in to buy at lower prices than those seen last week.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 2, 2026

While he loves being with his parents, he said he could not "see a light at the end of the tunnel" when it comes to affording his own home.

From BBC • Nov. 27, 2025

Oh great, Julia thought, a light at the end of the tunnel.

From Any Coincidence Is by Callahan, Daniel

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023