GRAMMAR – AT THE END vs IN THE END
Simply put, at the end refers to a specific time or location, and in the end is an idiomatic phrase that means “finally,” “after a long time,” or, “all things considered.”
- At the end of the day, we went home. (specific time)
- We scored a goal at the end of the game, and we won. (specific time)
- I’m going on holiday at the end of the week. (specific time)
- At the end of his life, he had no regrets. (specific moment)
- In the end, everyone was happy with the decision. (in conclusion)
- We worked hard, and in the end, we achieved our goal. (after a long time)
- In the end, what really matters in a friendship is trust. (all things considered)
- We waited for her for over an hour and, in the end, we went without her.