What does lastly mean?
Lastly is a formal adverb that introduces the final point, item, or stage in a sequence. It is often used in presentations, formal discussions, essays, and correspondence, especially in British English, and it signals that the speaker or writer is about to conclude. For example, in a list of issues, “lastly” marks the final issue. Although it is sometimes interchangeable with “finally” when referring to the end of a sequence, “finally” has an additional meaning of happening after a delay or at last, a nuance that “lastly” does not usually share. In informal American English, “last of all” or simply “finally” may sound more natural. The word is consequently precise and useful in organized, formal contexts, where it makes the structure of an argument or presentation clear.
adverbUsed to introduce the final point, item, or stage in a sequence. It is especially common in formal speech and writing.
- As an adverb, used to introduce the last point or item in a sequence, especially in formal speech or writing.
"The presentation covered the budget, staffing, and, lastly, the proposed launch date."
"The agenda included a review of the research, a discussion of the results, and, lastly, plans for future work."
"Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the project."
In a list, “firstly” promises order, but “lastly” gets the final word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lastly come from?
“Lastly” was formed in the early 19th century by adding the suffix -ly to the adjective “last,” meaning “final” or “coming after all others.” “Last” comes from Old English læst, related to Old Norse lastr, and ultimately to forms meaning “furthest” or “latest.” The adverbial use of “lastly” developed as a marker of the final item in an ordered list.
How lastly is actually used
Common in British English and formal international English. It is less frequent in everyday American speech, where “finally” or “last of all” is often preferred.
Easily confused with lastly
“Lastly” means that something comes last in a planned sequence, whereas “finally” can also mean that it happens after a period of waiting.