at the end of the day
1
used before stating the most important fact about a particular situation
The idiom "at the end of the day" is thought to have originated in the 17th century as a way to refer to the end of a workman's day. It was later adopted into figurative use to emphasize what is ultimately important or what matters most. It is often used to contrast the immediate or short-term with the long-term or ultimate consequences of something.
- I know it's a lot of work, but at the end of the day, it'll be worth it.
- At the end of the day, all that matters is that you're happy.
- I don't care what other people think; at the end of the day, I'm the only one who has to live with my decisions.
- I know you're tempted to take the easy way out, but at the end of the day, you'll be glad you chose to do the right thing.
- Money can't buy happiness.At the end of the day, it's the relationships in your life that matter most.