What it means
あげく expresses that, after a long, difficult, or repeated process, a final result was reached. The result is usually undesirable, disappointing, or contrary to what was hoped for. It commonly follows a verb in the past plain form or a noun followed by の, and it often emphasizes the wasted effort or trouble leading to the outcome.
Usage note
あげく is normally used for unfavorable or disappointing outcomes, so it is not a neutral replacement for expressions meaning simply “finally.” The form あげくに is also common, but the meaning is essentially the same.
How to use it
度重なる議論のあげく、委員会は結論を出せませんでした。
After repeated discussions, the committee could not reach a conclusion.
長い交渉を重ねたあげく、契約は破談になりました。
After lengthy negotiations, the contract ultimately fell through.
度重なる議論のあげく、委員会は結論を出せなかった。
After repeated discussions, the committee could not reach a conclusion.
長い交渉を重ねたあげく、契約は破談になった。
After lengthy negotiations, the contract ultimately fell through.
Example sentences
三時間も話し合ったあげく、委員会は計画を最初から見直すことにした。
After discussing the matter for three hours, the committee decided to review the plan from the beginning.
何度も修理を試みたあげく、古い冷蔵庫を処分することになった。
After trying to repair the old refrigerator many times, I ended up having to dispose of it.
長い