the beginning of the end
noun phrase
: the start of a series of events that leads to the end
The argument marked the beginning of the end of their marriage.
Examples of the beginning of the end in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
America just passed the 50th anniversary of one of its truly terrible days — one that future historians can track as the beginning of the end of our democracy.
—
Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2026
America just passed the 50th anniversary of one of its truly terrible days — one that future historians can track as the beginning of the end of our democracy.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 3 Feb. 2026
But with 20 minutes left in the episode, the conclusion of Rusty's legal nightmare is only the beginning of the end.
—Matt Cabral, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Jan. 2026
So that could be the beginning of the end.
—CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the beginning of the end
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2026
America just passed the 50th anniversary of one of its truly terrible days — one that future historians can track as the beginning of the end of our democracy.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 3 Feb. 2026
But with 20 minutes left in the episode, the conclusion of Rusty's legal nightmare is only the beginning of the end.
—Matt Cabral, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Jan. 2026
So that could be the beginning of the end.
—CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the beginning of the end
Cite this Entry
“The beginning of the end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20beginning%20of%20the%20end. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
