What it means
始末だ marks an eventual outcome that is usually undesirable, excessive, or embarrassing. It is used when a situation develops to the point that someone ultimately does something or reaches a state that the speaker views negatively. The preceding verb is generally in the dictionary form, and the construction often follows a sequence of repeated actions, warnings, or worsening circumstances.
Usage note
始末だ is strongly associated with criticism or regret and is not normally used for neutral or favorable results. It should not be confused with the ordinary noun 始末, which can mean disposal, handling, or settling a matter.
How to use it
彼は何度注意されても、規則を破り続ける始末です。
He ends up continuing to break the rules despite being warned repeatedly.
彼は何度注意されても、規則を破り続ける始末だ。
He ends up continuing to break the rules despite being warned repeatedly.
