What does lastingly mean?
Lastingly is an adverb meaning in a lasting or permanent manner, and sometimes, for the last time. It emphasizes that an action or change is intended to endure rather than being temporary, though in some contexts it can signal finality. The word is less common than its simpler alternatives, such as 'permanently,' 'forever,' and 'finally,' but it gives writing a distinctive, slightly formal tone. A sentence such as 'The building was closed lastingly' conveys that the closure was permanent, while 'The event took place lastingly' can suggest that it was the final occurrence. The word is related to 'last' and 'lasting' and should be distinguished from 'lastly,' which means 'finally' in a sequence or argument.
adverbIn a lasting or permanent manner; for the last time.
- In a lasting or permanent manner.
- For the last time; finally.
"The old theatre was closed lastingly after its final performance."
"The council has lastingly altered the town's historic centre."
"The old railway line was closed lastingly at the end of the season."
Lastingly is a compact way to say that something is intended to continue permanently, or that an action is happening for the last time.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lastingly come from?
Lastingly is formed from the adjective 'lasting' with the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Last' and 'lasting' both derive from an Old English word meaning continuing or remaining, related to the idea of duration. The form 'lastingly' is a later English formation following the normal productive pattern of adding '-ly' to an adjective to create an adverb.
Related word forms
How lastingly is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon and somewhat formal word. It is more natural in deliberate or emphatic writing than in everyday conversation, and it can be confused with 'lastly,' which concerns sequence rather than permanence.
Easily confused with lastingly
Lastingly means in a lasting or permanent manner, whereas lastly means finally or as the last point in a sequence.