grand finale: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumFormal/neutral
Quick answer
What does “grand finale” mean?
The spectacular concluding act of a performance or event.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The spectacular concluding act of a performance or event.
The final, climactic, and most impressive event in a series; the dramatic conclusion of any process or sequence of events.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage; spelling of 'finale' consistent.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties.
Frequency
Slightly more common in US media and entertainment contexts, but widely used in both.
Grammar
How to Use “grand finale” in a Sentence
[event] reached/came to/had its grand finale with [spectacle]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; used metaphorically for a final, major product launch or deal.
Academic
Used in analyses of performance arts or narrative structures.
Everyday
Common for describing the end of parties, shows, TV series, or sports events.
Technical
Standard term in theatre, music, television, and event production.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “grand finale”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “grand finale”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “grand finale”
- Using for any ordinary ending; misspelling as 'grand finaly'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, while originating in performance arts, it is now used metaphorically for any impressive concluding event in a series.
It is unusual, as the term strongly implies a spectacular, celebratory, or climactic conclusion.
A 'finale' is simply the end. A 'grand finale' specifically denotes an end that is elaborate, impressive, and the high point of the event.
Only if the meeting ended with a particularly dramatic or significant announcement or event; otherwise, it might sound exaggerated.
The spectacular concluding act of a performance or event.
Grand finale is usually formal/neutral in register.
Grand finale: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡrænd fɪˈnɑːli/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡrænd fəˈnæli/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It all built up to a grand finale.”
- “Saving the best for the grand finale.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a FIREWORK display: the GRANDest, loudest, and most colourful part is always saved for the FINALE.
Conceptual Metaphor
A JOURNEY ending at a spectacular destination; a STORY reaching its most exciting point.
Practice
Quiz
Which scenario best describes a 'grand finale'?