最后

• Pinyin: zuì hòu
• Hanzi breakdown: 最 = most; 后 = originally depicted a foot trailing behind — after, behind, last

Meaning

Last; final; in the end. Refers to the final position in a sequence or the conclusion of events.

Used both as an adjective/noun (the last one: 最后一个) and as a time word (finally/in the end: 最后我们回家了). Very common in narrating events, listing items, or describing conclusions. Can begin a sentence as a transitional phrase: 最后，我想说...

Examples

1. 最后一个问题是什么？ What is the last question?
2. 他是最后到的。 He was the last to arrive.
3. 最后我们去了公园。 In the end, we went to the park.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, narrative

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这是最后的机会。(This is the last chance.)
• 最后，谢谢大家。(Finally, thank you everyone.)

Don't Say

• 我是最后了的人。(Incorrect structure — say 我是最后一个人 or 我是最后到的人)

Origin & History

Compound of 最 (most) + 后 (after/behind). Literally 'the most after' or 'the furthest behind in sequence'.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal