ようやく

Alternative writings: 漸く
JLPT:N2
Frequency:
1

Finally; at last — after a long time or effort, something is achieved.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

ようやく試験に合格した。

I finally passed the exam.

長い渋滞の末、目的地にようやく着いた。

After a long traffic jam, we finally arrived at our destination.

交渉が難航したが、ようやく合意に達した。

Negotiations were tough, but we finally reached an agreement.

2

Barely/narrowly; indicates something was achieved only just or with difficulty.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

バスにようやく間に合った。

I barely made it to the bus.

費用はようやく足りたが、余裕はない。

The funds were barely sufficient; there's no margin.

3

Gradually; little by little — used to indicate a slow, progressive change.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

練習を続けて、ようやく上達してきた。

After continued practice, I've gradually improved.

寒さが和らぎ、ようやく春らしくなってきた。

The cold is easing, and it's gradually becoming more like spring.

Word Relationships