After Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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after
[ˈɑːftər ]
Definitions
in time
Later than a particular time or event.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| after |
Used for indicating time or sequence; can be formal or informal, depending on the context.
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| following |
Typically more formal, often used in written or official contexts. It indicates something that comes directly next.
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| subsequent |
More formal; used often in academic, legal, or professional contexts to indicate something that comes immediately after as a result or consequence.
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| post |
Often used in a more informal, modern context, sometimes in corporate or project management language, and specifically as a prefix.
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Examples of usage
- After the meeting, we can go for lunch.
- They arrived after midnight.
time
In the time following (an event or another period of time).
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| after |
Use 'after' to indicate something that happens later in time compared to another event. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and written communication.
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| following |
Use 'following' to show a sequence of events or to describe something that comes as a result of something else. This is often used in formal contexts or written instructions.
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| subsequent |
Use 'subsequent' in formal contexts to refer to events or actions that happen at a later time than a previously mentioned event. It gives a sense of a more extended timeline.
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| next |
Use 'next' to indicate the very immediate event or item that comes after the current or specified one. It is frequently used in day-to-day conversations and scheduling.
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Examples of usage
- After the war, he returned to his homeland.
- I'll call you after I finish work.
time
Happening or done after the normal time or the usual time.
Synonyms
following, later, subsequently.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| after |
Used to indicate something that happens at a time later than another event. It is versatile and can be used in various everyday contexts.
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| later |
Indicates a time further into the future relative to another point in time. It is often used in informal speech for things happening not immediately but soon.
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| subsequently |
Found mostly in written texts or formal speech, this word indicates that something occurred at a later time, usually as a result of the previous event.
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| following |
Used to specify time or sequence directly after a previous event or item. It has a formal tone and is often used in written instructions, formal communication, or announcements.
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Examples of usage
- He came shortly after.
- She arrived late, after.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- 'After' is a preposition and can also function as a conjunction, creating varied sentence structures.
- In some dialects, the pronunciation changes slightly, demonstrating regional language diversity.
- It can create both temporal and causal relationships in sentences, enriching communication.
Psychology
- Learning to understand sequence words like 'after' helps improve cognitive skills related to time management.
- Developmental psychologists note that young children often grasp the concept of 'after' around age 3 to 4 as they learn routines.
- The ability to recognize time-related words is linked to developing organizational skills in children.
Literature
- In classic literature, 'after' often sets the stage for reflection and character development, hinting at personal growth.
- Poets frequently use the word to denote change or the aftermath of events, filling their works with depth and emotion.
- Famous literary works often explore themes of consequence and change, utilizing 'after' to signify transformation.
Everyday Use
- 'After' is essential in daily communication, helping people describe events like meetings or social gatherings.
- It appears in common phrases, such as 'after school' or 'after the fact', allowing clarity in conversations.
- Time management tools often use 'after' to schedule activities, creating structure in busy lives.
Origin of 'after'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'æfter,' which also meant 'after' and is related to the German 'after' and Dutch 'achter.'
- It has been used in English since before the 12th century, showing its long-standing presence in the language.
- Originally, it expressed not only time but also order or sequence.
The word 'after' originated from Old English 'æfter', which is related to Old Frisian 'efter' and Old High German 'aftar'. It has been used in the English language for centuries, evolving in meaning and usage over time. Today, 'after' is a common preposition, conjunction, and adverb used to indicate time or sequence.
See also: afterward, afterwards.