よく間違える英語の副詞表現：at the end と in the end の違いは？
In English, many adverbs and adverbial phrases look similar but have very different meanings.
Learners often understand the words individually, but misunderstand the feeling or placement of the phrase.
This can cause confusion when speaking or writing.
Let’s look at some commonly confused pairs and how to use them correctly.
1. At the End vs In the End
These are often confused, but the meanings are very different.
At the end
Meaning: The final time or position
It describes location or timing, not results.
Examples:
At the end of the movie, everyone was crying. (time)
We met at the end of the street. (location)
Please answer the questions at the end of the book. (location)
Think: physical or time position.
In the end
Meaning: Finally / after everything / the result
It describes a conclusion or outcome.
Examples:
In the end, we decided to cancel the trip. (conclusion)
He was nervous at first, but in the end he did very well. (outcome)
In the end, honesty was the best choice. (conclusion)
Think: final result after a process.
Quick contrast
At the end of the meeting, we took a photo.
(time position)
In the end, we agreed on a new plan.
(final decision/result)
2. At First vs First
These look similar but function differently.
At first
Meaning: In the beginning (often contrasts with later change)
Examples:
At first, I didn’t like the job.
She was shy at first.
This often gives the feeling that the opinion later changed.
First
Meaning: Sequence or order
Examples:
First, open the file.
I met him first in 2018.
Think: step order, not emotional change.
3. Eventually vs Finally
Both relate to endings, but tone differs.
Eventually
Meaning: After a long time / after delay
Focus = time passing
Examples:
He eventually found a job.
We eventually arrived home at midnight.
Implies waiting or difficulty.
Finally
Meaning: At the last step / conclusion
Focus = completion
Examples:
Finally, submit your report.
The train finally arrived.
Implies relief or closure.
4. Still vs Yet
These confuse many learners.
Still
Meaning: Continuing
Examples:
I am still working.
She still lives here.
Action has not changed.
Yet
Meaning: Not until now
Examples:
I haven’t finished yet.
Have you eaten yet?
Common in negatives and questions.
5. Already vs Yet
Another common pair.
Already
Meaning: Earlier than expected
Examples:
I’ve already eaten.
She already knows.
Implies surprise or speed.
Yet
Meaning: Up to now (negative)
Examples:
I haven’t eaten yet.
He hasn’t replied yet.
Implies waiting.
Why These Phrases Matter
These phrases do not just show time.
They show:
expectation
contrast
process
emotional tone
Compare:
At the end, we talked.
In the end, we talked.
The first = time point
The second = final resolution
Small wording changes can alter meaning significantly.
Practice
Choose the best option.
___, we decided to move abroad.
A. At the end
B. In the end
I was nervous ___, but I relaxed later.
A. at first
B. first
He hasn’t finished the report ___.
A. still
B. yet
She has ___ left the office.
A. already
B. yet
Answers
B
A
B
A