What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
terminal
Example
We arrived at the airport terminal two hours before our flight. [terminal: noun]
Example
The terminal stop for this bus route is downtown. [terminal: adjective]
Example
The IT department is responsible for maintaining the company's computer terminals. [terminals: plural noun]
final
Example
This is your final warning before we take disciplinary action. [final: adjective]
Example
The final exam will cover all the material from the course. [final: adjective]
Example
The team made it to the finals of the tournament. [finals: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Final is more commonly used than terminal in everyday language due to its versatility and wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between terminal and final?
Both terminal and final can be used in formal and informal contexts, but terminal may be more commonly used in technical or specialized fields.