Last Word, To Have the
Definition: To have the final say in a decision, or the closing rejoinder in a debate. This term dates back to the sixteenth century and has been eagerly hijacked by anyone seeking to win an argument—or simply to be right, even if they might be talking “bilk” (absolutely nothing).
Humor-Filled Quote: “In arguments, as in bed, the final position is always the most questionable.” - Frank Tich
Related and Similar Terms:
- Final Say: The ultimate authority.
- Closing Argument: The last statement, especially in a legal case.
- Endgame: The concluding stages of a situation or debate.
- Mic Drop: (Modern usage) To finish a speech or argument with a particularly impressive point.
Synonyms:
- Last Say
- Final Assessment
- Conclusive Input
Antonyms:
- Opening Gambit
- Initial Remark
- First Word
Proverb: “He who laughs last laughs best” – Sometimes being the one to have the final say, or the “last laugh,” is all that counts in the end.
Literature Reference: “A Tale of a Tub” by Ben Jonson (1633) features a character insistent on having the last word, regardless of sense or sensibility.
Movie Suggestion: “The Last Word” (2017) starring Shirley MacLaine and Amanda Seyfried, where a retired businesswoman seeks to control how she is remembered by writing her own obituary.
Inspirational Thought: “Remember, having the last word doesn’t mean you’ve won the argument, it simply means you’ve had the final punctuation.”
🌟 Embrace the power of having the last word wisely. It’s not always about winning—sometimes, it’s just about being remembered.
