When we use "last" as an adjective at the C1 level, it signifies the culmination or concluding position in a sequence or series. It denotes the item, event, or person that comes after all others, marking the endpoint or finality within a defined set. This can imply a definitive end, or simply the most recent in a continuous series.
last en 30 secondes
- Final item in a sequence
- The one at the very end
- No more to come after
§ Similar words and when to use this one vs alternatives
The word 'last' as an adjective means final. It refers to something that comes at the end of a series or sequence. Let's explore some similar words and understand when to use 'last' in contrast to them.
- DEFINITION
- Final; coming after all others.
This is the last piece of cake.
Here are some similar words and how they compare to 'last':
- Final: This is a very close synonym to 'last' and can often be used interchangeably. 'Final' sometimes carries a slightly more formal tone and can imply a sense of closure or completion.
This is the final episode of the season.
- Ultimate: 'Ultimate' suggests the extreme or highest point, or the most important or decisive thing. While it can imply being 'last' in a sequence of importance, it's not simply about position.
His ultimate goal was to climb Mount Everest.
- Conclusive: This word is used for something that settles a matter or provides a final answer. It's often used in the context of evidence or arguments.
The evidence was conclusive.
When deciding between 'last' and its alternatives, consider the nuance you want to convey:
- Use 'last' when you are simply stating something is at the end of a series or sequence. It's the most common and general term.
- Use 'final' when you want to emphasize completion or closure, and it can be used in more formal contexts.
- Use 'ultimate' when you want to highlight the extreme, most important, or decisive aspect.
- Use 'conclusive' when referring to an outcome or evidence that settles a matter definitively.
Understanding these subtle differences will help you choose the most appropriate word for your specific context.
Astuces
Use Flashcards
Create physical or digital flashcards. On one side, write 'last' (adjective), CEFR A1, and on the other, 'final'. Practice regularly.
Listen and Repeat
Listen to how native speakers use 'last'. Try to imitate their pronunciation and intonation. You can find examples in movies or songs.
Write it Down
Write 'last' multiple times. Use it in different sentences. This helps to reinforce memory and improves spelling.
Associate with Images
Find an image that represents 'final' or 'last'. For example, a picture of the end of a race. This creates a visual memory link.
Use it in Conversation
Try to incorporate 'last' into your everyday conversations. Even if it's just practicing with a friend, active use helps solidify your understanding.
Think of Synonyms and Antonyms
For 'last', a synonym is 'final'. An antonym could be 'first'. Understanding these relationships expands your vocabulary network.
Keep a Vocabulary Notebook
Dedicate a notebook to new words. For each word, include the definition, part of speech, a sentence, and maybe a small drawing. Review it often.
Short Daily Practice
Instead of long study sessions, do short, focused practice daily. Even 5-10 minutes can make a big difference for retention.
Self-Correction is Learning
Don't be afraid to make mistakes. When you realize you've used a word incorrectly, correct yourself and learn from it. This is a crucial part of the learning process.
Teste-toi 36 questions
The word 'last' refers to the final one.
The word 'last' means she was the final one to exit.
The word 'last' refers to the final day.
Read this aloud:
This is my last chance.
Focus: /lɑːst/
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Read this aloud:
He arrived last.
Focus: /lɑːst/
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Read this aloud:
This is the last stop.
Focus: /lɑːst/
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The correct order is 'This is the last book.'
The correct order is 'My last name is Smith.'
The correct order is 'This is my last day.'
Which of these means the same as 'last'?
'Last' refers to something that comes at the end, which is the meaning of 'final'.
What is the 'last' day of the week?
Sunday is typically considered the last day of the week.
The 'last' piece of cake was eaten by my brother. What does 'last' mean in this sentence?
In this context, 'last' means the remaining or final piece of cake.
The 'last' train arrives first.
'Last' means final, so the last train would arrive after all other trains.
If something is 'last', it means there are no more after it.
'Last' indicates the end of a series or sequence.
The 'last' chapter of a book is usually at the beginning.
The 'last' chapter is at the end of the book, not the beginning.
Write a sentence using 'last' to describe the final thing in a series.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
This is my last cookie. I ate all the others.
Complete the sentence: My last day of vacation was...
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My last day of vacation was very relaxing. I read a book by the pool.
Describe something you did last week using the word 'last'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Last week, I visited my grandparents. We had a nice dinner together.
What was the final item the person bought?
Read this passage:
I went to the store yesterday. I bought some milk, bread, and apples. The last thing I bought was a chocolate bar. It was a treat for myself.
What was the final item the person bought?
The passage says 'The last thing I bought was a chocolate bar.', indicating it was the final item.
The passage says 'The last thing I bought was a chocolate bar.', indicating it was the final item.
What part of the movie was exciting?
Read this passage:
The movie was very long. It started at 7 PM and finished at 10 PM. The last scene was very exciting, and everyone cheered.
What part of the movie was exciting?
The passage states 'The last scene was very exciting'.
The passage states 'The last scene was very exciting'.
Which city did they visit just before going home?
Read this passage:
My sister and I went on a trip. We visited Paris, Rome, and London. London was our last stop before coming home.
Which city did they visit just before going home?
The passage says 'London was our last stop before coming home.'
The passage says 'London was our last stop before coming home.'
Imagine you are planning a trip. Describe the last thing you need to do before you leave for your trip. Use at least 50 words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Before I leave for my trip, the last thing I need to do is a final check of the house. I'll make sure all the windows are locked and the doors are securely closed. Then, I'll double-check that all unnecessary electronics are unplugged to save energy. Finally, I'll take out the trash and water the plants. These last-minute preparations ensure a worry-free start to my vacation.
Write a short paragraph about the last time you felt really happy. What happened and why did it make you feel that way?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The last time I felt truly happy was when my sister visited me unexpectedly. I hadn't seen her in months, and her surprise visit brought so much joy. We spent the whole weekend catching up, laughing, and cooking our favorite meals together. It felt wonderful to have her around, and it reminded me of the importance of family and connection. It was a really special and heartwarming experience.
Describe the last book you read. What was it about and would you recommend it? Why or why not?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The last book I read was 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig. It's about a woman who gets a chance to explore different versions of her life. The story was incredibly thought-provoking and made me consider the choices I've made. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys philosophical fiction. It was a captivating read that made me reflect on my own life's possibilities.
What was the last thing Sarah remembered she needed to do?
Read this passage:
Sarah was excited for her vacation. She had packed everything she needed, bought her plane ticket, and even planned her sightseeing. However, on the last day before her departure, she realized she had forgotten to charge her phone. She quickly plugged it in, hoping it would be fully charged in time for her early morning flight.
What was the last thing Sarah remembered she needed to do?
The passage states, 'on the last day before her departure, she realized she had forgotten to charge her phone.'
The passage states, 'on the last day before her departure, she realized she had forgotten to charge her phone.'
What marked the official start of the students' summer break?
Read this passage:
The school year was coming to an end. Students were busy studying for their final exams. The last day of school was always a big celebration with games and a picnic. Everyone looked forward to it, as it marked the official start of their summer break.
What marked the official start of the students' summer break?
The passage says, 'the last day of school was always a big celebration... as it marked the official start of their summer break.'
The passage says, 'the last day of school was always a big celebration... as it marked the official start of their summer break.'
What was the last step Mark needed to do to bake the cake?
Read this passage:
Mark was baking a cake for his friend's birthday. He had added all the ingredients and mixed them together. Now, the last step was to put the cake in the oven to bake. He carefully placed the cake tin inside, setting the timer for 30 minutes.
What was the last step Mark needed to do to bake the cake?
The passage states, 'Now, the last step was to put the cake in the oven to bake.'
The passage states, 'Now, the last step was to put the cake in the oven to bake.'
Focus on the overall meaning of perseverance and achieving a final goal.
Consider the artistic and emotional impact of an ending.
Understand the context of diplomatic resolution and a conclusive agreement.
Read this aloud:
Could you elaborate on the intricacies of the final draft of the legislation, particularly concerning its potential ramifications for nascent industries?
Focus: intricacies, ramifications, nascent
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
In what ways do you believe the ultimate outcome of the technological revolution will redefine societal paradigms and reshape human interaction?
Focus: ultimate, redefine, paradigms, reshape
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
Reflect on the culminating moments of a significant historical event and discuss its enduring legacy on contemporary global affairs.
Focus: culminating, enduring, legacy, contemporary
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Summary
The word 'last' indicates the final position or element in any given order or series.
- Final item in a sequence
- The one at the very end
- No more to come after
Context is Key
Always try to learn new words in a sentence or phrase. For example, instead of just 'last', think 'the last day of the week'.
Use Flashcards
Create physical or digital flashcards. On one side, write 'last' (adjective), CEFR A1, and on the other, 'final'. Practice regularly.
Listen and Repeat
Listen to how native speakers use 'last'. Try to imitate their pronunciation and intonation. You can find examples in movies or songs.
Write it Down
Write 'last' multiple times. Use it in different sentences. This helps to reinforce memory and improves spelling.
Exemple
Last chance.
Contenu associé
Apprendre en contexte
Ce mot dans d'autres langues
Expressions liées
Plus de mots sur time
contemporary
B2Fait référence à quelque chose qui existe ou se produit dans la période de temps actuelle. Il peut également décrire des personnes ou des choses qui vivent ou existent pendant la même période.
early
A1Quelque chose qui arrive près du début d'une période ou avant l'heure prévue.
next
A1La personne ou la chose qui suit celle qui est présente ou mentionnée.
year
A1A year is a period of time that lasts 365 days, or 366 days in a leap year. It represents the time it takes for the Earth to complete one full revolution around the Sun.
