Definition

Adverb: - Used to introduce the final point or item in a list or sequence: Indicates that what follows is the last element being mentioned or considered.

Usage

• Position in a sentence: Typically appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause to signal the concluding item in an enumeration or argument.
• Function: Serves as a discourse marker to structure information and guide the listener or reader to the end of a sequence.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "And lastly...": A common phrase used for emphasis before stating the final item.
  • We will cover grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and lastly, conversational practice.
• In formal writing or speech, "lastly" can be used to introduce a concluding summary or the most important final point.
  • The report addresses economic, social, and political factors. Lastly, it proposes a framework for future action.

Variants and Related Words

• Finally (adv): Often interchangeable with "lastly" to indicate the last item. It can also imply a sense of relief after a long wait.
• Ultimately (adv): Refers to the final result or most fundamental point, often more abstract than "lastly."
• In conclusion: A phrase used to introduce the final summarizing remarks of a speech or text, not just the last item in a list.

Synonyms

• Finally
• In conclusion (for summarizing)
• To conclude
• Last but not least (idiomatic, used to emphasize that the final item is still important)

Antonyms

• Firstly
• Initially
• First of all

Related Phrases

• Last but not least: An idiomatic phrase used to introduce the final item in a way that emphasizes its importance.
  • I'd like to thank the organizers, the volunteers, and last but not least, the attendees.
• And last: A simpler, more informal alternative to "and lastly."
  • We visited Rome, Florence, and last, Venice.

Adverb

1. the item at the end
   • last, I'll discuss family values