last

Coming after all the others in a group or series.

• Read the last page.
• She was the last runner to finish.
• Is this our last lesson?

How to use it: the last person to do something (He was the last person to leave.)

Similar words: final

Opposites: first

Common phrases: last page, last person

The most recent one before now or before a particular past time.

• When was your last visit?
• His last email arrived on Monday.
• The last time we met, you were living abroad.

Similar words: latest, most recent

Common phrases: last time, last visit

The only one left after the others have gone or been used.

• I ate the last biscuit.
• She spent her last coin on bread.
• This is our last chance to buy tickets.

Similar words: remaining

Common phrases: last piece, last chance

The week, month, year, or other period immediately before the current one.

• We moved here last year.
• Did you sleep well last night?
• She visited her parents last weekend.

Similar words: previous

Opposites: next

Common phrases: last week, last year

The most recent named day or occasion, sometimes meaning the one before a very recent occurrence.

• We met last Friday.
• She came home last Christmas.
• By last Tuesday, I mean Tuesday of the previous week.

Similar words: previous

Opposites: next

Common phrases: last Monday, last Christmas

On the most recent occasion before now or a particular past time.

• When did you last eat?
• I last saw her in June.
• They had moved since we last visited.

Similar words: most recently

Common phrases: last saw, last spoke

After all the other people, things, or actions.

• Add the salt last.
• She arrived last but left first.
• Who wants to speak last?

Similar words: finally

Opposites: first

Common phrases: come last, finish last

To continue happening or existing for a period of time.

• The film lasts two hours.
• Their friendship lasted for many years.
• How long will the meeting last?

How to use it: last for a period (The exhibition will last for two weeks.); last until a time (The rain lasted until midnight.)

Similar words: continue, endure

Opposites: end, stop

Common phrases: last an hour, last for years