Afterward: meaning, definitions and examples

⏭️
Add to dictionary

afterward

 

[ ˈæftərwərd ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

used to refer to a time following an event or situation

At a later or future time; subsequently. Following an event or situation, in time or order.

Synonyms

after, later, subsequently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
afterward

This word is typically used to refer to a later point in time after a specific event. It's often used in both casual and formal settings.

  • We went to the movies and had dinner afterward.
  • Afterward, she realized the mistake she had made.
later

This word is often used informally to indicate something happening at a future point in time, not necessarily immediately following another event.

  • I'll call you later.
  • Let's discuss this later.
subsequently

This word is used in more formal or academic settings to indicate something that happens after a particular event or period.

  • He missed the first test and subsequently failed the course.
  • The company expanded rapidly and subsequently invested in new markets.
after

This word is versatile and can be used in both temporal and sequential contexts to indicate a point in time following an event or action.

  • We'll meet for coffee after the meeting.
  • She felt much better after taking the medicine.

Examples of usage

  • Afterward, she realized her mistake.
  • I'll call you afterward.
  • We went to the movies, and afterward, we got dinner.
Context #2 | Adverb

in addition to what has already been mentioned

In addition; furthermore. Following something in time or order as well.

Synonyms

also, furthermore, in addition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
afterward

This word is used to indicate that something happens following another event in time.

  • We went to the movie, and afterward, we had dinner.
  • He apologized afterward for his mistake.
furthermore

This formal word is used to add more information to an argument or statement, often used in writing.

  • The new policy will save money. Furthermore, it will improve customer satisfaction.
  • The project is ahead of schedule. Furthermore, it's under budget.
in addition

This phrase is used to add more information, similar to 'also' and 'furthermore', often used in more formal contexts.

  • In addition to a salary, the job offers excellent benefits.
  • She’s a talented artist and, in addition, a great teacher.
also

This word is used to add another fact or point in addition to what has already been mentioned.

  • She sings beautifully and also plays the guitar.
  • He works as a teacher and also writes books.

Examples of usage

  • She had a great job and a loving family, and afterward, she also won the lottery.
  • He was tired from work, and afterward, he had to cook dinner.

Translations

Translations of the word "afterward" in other languages:

🇵🇹 depois

🇮🇳 बाद में

🇩🇪 nachher

🇮🇩 kemudian

🇺🇦 потім

🇵🇱 potem

🇯🇵 後で (あとで)

🇫🇷 après

🇪🇸 después

🇹🇷 sonra

🇰🇷 나중에

🇸🇦 بعد ذلك

🇨🇿 potom

🇸🇰 potom

🇨🇳 之后 (zhīhòu)

🇸🇮 potem

🇮🇸 eftir á

🇰🇿 кейін

🇬🇪 შემდგომ

🇦🇿 sonra

🇲🇽 después

Etymology

The word 'afterward' originated in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'æfterweard', which combined 'æfter' (after) and 'weard' (direction). The term has been in use since the 14th century, evolving in spelling and pronunciation over time to its current form. 'Afterward' has maintained its meaning of denoting something that follows in time or order, and it continues to be a common adverb in modern English.

See also: after, afterwards.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,727 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.