1
Core logical function
Finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
Example
After several revisions, the committee ultimately approved the proposal.
ultimately
/ˈʌltɪmətli/ · UL-tih-mut-leeconclusion adverb
Finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
Use ultimately to express this relationship precisely: finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
What ultimately Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Sentence connection
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Ultimately, the disagreement concerns how evidence should be weighted.
3
Argument-level effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The larvae pass through several stages and ultimately emerge as adults.
Use ultimately Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
After several revisions, the committee ultimately approved the proposal.
Ultimately, the disagreement concerns how evidence should be weighted.
The larvae pass through several stages and ultimately emerge as adults.
Precision Matters
Ultimately overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
ultimately
vs.Means finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
in sum
Means introduce a concise conclusion or summary drawn from the preceding discussion.
ultimately
vs.Means finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
in the long run
Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
ultimately
vs.Means finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
on balance
Means state a conclusion reached after weighing competing considerations.
ultimately
vs.Means finally, after other stages or considerations; at the most fundamental level.
subsequently
Means afterward; at a later time than the event just mentioned.
Test ultimately in Context
At the most fundamental level, both explanations share that dependence.
1
The rival explanations differ in detail, but ___ both depend on the same disputed assumption.