HSK 7-9
终究
zhōngjiū
After all; in the end; eventually
Structure
Subject + 终究 + Verb / Adjective / Clause
How it works
The adverb '终究' is used to emphasize an inevitable outcome or a fundamental truth that remains unchanged despite various circumstances or delays. It often conveys a sense of resolution or an objective reality that cannot be avoided, similar to 'after all' or 'in the end'.
Examples
正义终究会战胜邪恶。
Zhèngyì zhōngjiū huì zhànshèng xié'è.
Justice will eventually triumph over evil.
纸终究是包不住火的。
Zhǐ zhōngjiū shì bāo bú zhù huǒ de.
Paper cannot wrap up fire after all (the truth will out).
他终究还是个孩子，难免会犯错。
Tā zhōngjiū háishì gè háizi, nánmiǎn huì fàncuò.
In the end, he is still a child; it's hard to avoid making mistakes.
Common mistakes
Confusing '终究' with '终于'. While both mean 'finally', '终于' focuses on the successful completion of a process after effort, whereas '终究' focuses on an inevitable conclusion or nature.
Tip
Use '终究' when you want to emphasize a fundamental nature or a 'bottom line' that doesn't change regardless of what happens.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 终究 in real Chinese
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