Eventually means in the end, finally, after some time. It describes a result that came after a long wait, delays or effort: We eventually found the hotel. It does not mean “possibly”. Similar-looking words in several European languages do mean “possibly, if circumstances require”, but in English that idea is expressed with maybe, possibly or if necessary.
eventually: will you get the meaning right?
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subject + eventually + verb; Eventually, + clause; will eventually + verb; the eventual + winner/result
- After three failed attempts, she eventually passed her driving test.
- Our flight was delayed for five hours, but we eventually landed in Rome after midnight.
- If you practise a little every day, speaking English will eventually feel natural.
What changed
First versionEventually we could postpone the meeting if Anna is still ill.
RevisionMaybe we could postpone the meeting if Anna is still ill.
The speaker is suggesting a backup plan in case Anna is still ill. Eventually doesn't work here: it means “in the end, after a long wait”, so the sentence sounds like “in the end, we could postpone the meeting”. The mistake comes from reading eventually as “possibly, if needed”. For a cautious suggestion, use maybe or possibly.
Eventually is close to in the end and finally: all three say that the result didn't come straight away. But only finally introduces the last item in a list: First, check the dates. Then compare prices. Finally, book the tickets. Eventually in that position would sound like “in the end, after a long struggle”.
Your turn
We waited for the bus for almost an hour, and it ___ arrived, completely full.
Show the answer
eventually — The bus did come, but only after an hour, so you need eventually, “in the end”. Possibly means “maybe” and doesn't fit an event that definitely happened: people saw the bus arrive full.
Write about something you didn't manage to do the first time. Say what exactly went wrong and how it all ended.
My first two job interviews went badly because I was too nervous, but I eventually got an offer from a small design studio.
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