Meanings
1
finally; after much effort; in the end
Used after a long process or hard work to express that something finally happened. Often follows a verb in past tense or a noun indicating a period of struggle.
See also: のちに
After long discussions, we finally reached an agreement.
After much hardship, he finally realized his dream.
2
at the end of; after (a period)
Used with a time expression to indicate the end of that period. Common with words like 来週, 今月, 今年.
I have to submit the report at the end of next week.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉の末にafter a long period or process of ~
After lengthy negotiations, the contract was finalized.
- 〈時〉の末にat the end of (a given time period)
At the end of next month, we're moving to a new office.
- 〈動詞〉た末にafter doing ~ for a long time, finally
After agonizing over it many times, he finally decided to study abroad.