結局

• Reading: けっきょく
• Romaji: kekkyoku
• Kanji breakdown: 結 (ketsu) — tie, bind, conclude; 局 (kyoku) — bureau, situation
• Pronunciation: /kek.kjo.kɯ/

Meaning

After all; in the end; eventually. Sums up the final outcome of a situation.

A very common adverb placed at the beginning or middle of a sentence to signal the final result or conclusion. Often implies that the outcome was contrary to expectations or that much deliberation preceded it. Frequently pairs with のところ (結局のところ) for emphasis. Appears in both casual and formal registers.

Examples

1. 迷ったけど結局カレーを注文した。 I couldn't decide, but in the end I ordered the curry.
2. 結局あの映画は見に行かなかった。 In the end, I never went to see that movie.
3. いろいろ調べたが結局わからなかった。 I looked into it a lot, but ultimately couldn't figure it out.

Usage Guide

Context: storytelling, conclusions, daily life

Tone: reflective

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound of 結 (ketsu, tie/conclude) and 局 (kyoku, bureau/situation). Literally 'the conclusion of the situation' — the point where everything is tied up.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal