あげく (ageku): After much; in the end unfortunately
～あげく (ageku)
Meaning
After much; in the end unfortunately
Formation and usage
Vた／Nの + あげく（に）
Notation: N = noun; V dictionary = dictionary-form verb; V stem = the stem before ます; plain clause = plain-form clause; negative stem = the form before ない. Follow the attachment shown above.
Explanation
Usually introduces an unfortunate outcome after a lengthy or difficult process; 末 can also introduce a positive result.
Examples
長い研究のあげく、計画を断念した。
After a long period of research, we ended up abandoning the plan.
長い練習のあげく、計画を断念した。
After a long period of practice, we ended up abandoning the plan.
長い勉強のあげく、計画を断念した。
After a long period of study, we ended up abandoning the plan.
長い準備のあげく、計画を断念した。
After a long period of preparation, we ended up abandoning the plan.
長い仕事のあげく、計画を断念した。
After a long period of work, we ended up abandoning the plan.
How related patterns differ
あげく usually leads to a bad result, while 末 can lead to a good one. かいもなく stresses unrewarded effort; 始末だ evaluates an unfortunate ending. 羽目になる is an unwelcome obligation, whereas ずじまい leaves an intention unfulfilled.