What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ending
Example
The ending of the movie was unexpected. [ending: noun]
Example
She is working on the ending of her novel. [ending: gerund or present participle]
finale
Example
The finale of the concert was breathtaking. [finale: noun]
Example
The composer spent months working on the finale of the symphony. [finale: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ending is more commonly used than finale in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, finale is more common in artistic and competitive contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ending and finale?
Both ending and finale are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
