最後に
saigo-ni
The English phrase 'lastly' is translated into Japanese as 最後に (saigo-ni).
最後に is used to introduce the final item in a list of points or steps, serving a similar function to 'finally' or 'lastly' in English. It can also be used to indicate the very end of a physical duration or a specific event, such as saying 'at the end of the movie'.
Meaning: sequence (adv)
Which one should you use?
While 最後に serves as a sequence marker in a list, it can also mean 'at the very end' of a duration. If you wish to express 'eventually' or 'in the end' to emphasize a result that occurred after a process, you should use the form 最後には. Additionally, for formal contexts implying a final decision, outcome or conclusion, the expression 最終的に is more appropriate.
How does it change in a sentence?
By adding the particle は (wa) to the end of 最後に, you create the form 最後には. This change shifts the meaning from a simple sequence marker to 'eventually' or 'in the end', emphasizing a result following a process.
How do you pronounce it?
saigo-ni
Did you know?
- The character 最 in 最後に is a superlative prefix. It is the same character used in 最高 to mean 'the best' or 'the highest'.
- In Japanese media and anime, 最後 is frequently used to imply a 'final showdown' or an 'ultimate end' rather than just the last item in a list.
- When signing off a formal speech or a written essay, Japanese speakers often avoid 最後に and instead use おわりに, which means 'at the closing'.
Examples in context
- 最後に、私たちの新プロジェクトについてお知らせします。Lastly, I would like to inform you about our new project.
- 最後に、質問があります。Saigo ni, shitsumon ga arimasu.Lastly, I have a question.
- 最後に、デザートを食べましょう。Saigo ni, dezāto o tabemashō.Lastly, let's eat dessert.
- 最後に、写真を撮りましょう。Saigo ni, shashin o torimashō.Lastly, let's take a photo.
Example conversation
Two friends are finishing a group project presentation.
- 大翔 Hiroto最後に、まとめを話します。Saigo ni, matome o hanashimasu.Lastly, I will speak about the summary.
- 陽葵 Himari大翔さん、お願いします。Hiroto-san, onegaishimasu.Hiroto, please go ahead.
- 大翔 Hirotoこれで発表を終わります。Kore de happyō o owarimasu.With this, I will end the presentation.
- 陽葵 Himariお疲れ様でした。Otsukaresama deshita.Good job.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “lastly” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
