遂に

ついに

finally, at last

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"遂に" (ついに) is an adverb used to express that something has happened at last or finally, often after a long wait or effort. It emphasizes the culmination of a process or the achievement of a goal.

Nuance

Using "遂に" implies a sense of relief, accomplishment, or inevitability. It often appears in both positive and neutral contexts but is less common in negative outcomes.

Common Collocations

  • 遂に + verb (e.g., 遂に成功した): to finally do something after effort or waiting
  • 遂に + 〜た (past tense): to indicate the event has just occurred after anticipation

Register and Politeness

"遂に" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "遂に" with "やっと" or "ついに" with "とうとう". While all can mean "finally," "遂に" often carries a stronger sense of completion or finality, especially in written or formal language.

Example Sentences

かれはついにゆめをかなえた。

He finally achieved his dream.

ながいあいだまっていたが、ついにかのじょがきた。

I had been waiting a long time, but she finally came.

ついにしけんがおわって、ほっとした。

The exam finally ended, and I felt relieved.