Next: meaning, definitions and examples

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[nekst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a sequence

Coming after this one; being the one that follows; immediately following the present one.

Synonyms

following, subsequent, succeeding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
next	Used commonly in everyday language to refer to the immediate thing that comes after the current one. See you next Monday. What’s the next step? Next, we will discuss the project details.
following	Used to describe something that comes directly after or refers to the thing mentioned earlier. Often used in formal or instructional contexts. In the following weeks, we will start the new project. Please read the following guidelines carefully. The list of ingredients includes the following.
subsequent	Used mainly in formal or academic settings to describe something that comes after a particular event or sequence. The subsequent chapters will cover advanced topics. There were subsequent changes to the contract. In the subsequent years, the company expanded internationally.
succeeding	Employed in formal contexts to indicate something that follows immediately after another thing in time or order. Often used in historical or procedural descriptions. Succeeding generations adopted new technologies. In the succeeding two hours, several issues were resolved. The succeeding events led to a major breakthrough.

Examples of usage

The next chapter in the book continues the story.
Let's meet again next week.
He is scheduled to speak next.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in time or order

On the first occasion to come, at the first time; on the next occasion.

Synonyms

afterwards, subsequently, then.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
next	Most commonly used when listing steps or events in a sequential order. It is straightforward and neutral. First, preheat the oven Next, mix the ingredients
then	Used in both casual and formal contexts to show the next item or action in a sequence. It is flexible and widely applicable. Finish your homework, then you can watch TV
afterwards	Typically used to indicate something happening at a later time, after another event. It often implies a short time gap. We went to the movie, and afterwards we had dinner
subsequently	Used in more formal or written contexts to indicate that something happened after a previous action or event, often with a significant time interval. He lost his job; subsequently, he decided to move to a new city

Examples of usage

We'll do better next time.
The meeting will take place next Tuesday.
She is next in line for promotion.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

the one that follows

The next person or thing is the one that comes immediately after the present one in order, place, or time.

Synonyms

following, subsequent, successor.

Examples of usage

I am next in line to get a promotion.
The next in line for the throne.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'next' comes from the Old English 'nēxt,' which means 'nearest' or 'closest.'
Its roots can be traced back to Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages, linking it to the concept of proximity.
Interestingly, 'next' was originally used to refer to the closest in time or space.

Grammar

'Next' is often used as a determiner, adjective, or adverb, referring to the following item in a sequence.
In English, it can also serve to indicate upcoming events, such as 'next week' or 'next year,' guiding time-related discussions.
In programming, 'next' plays a crucial role in navigation structures, such as loops and lists, directing to the subsequent item.

Culture

In popular culture, the term 'next' often appears in reality shows, indicating the upcoming contestant or event.
The phrase 'what's next?' has become a common expression used to prompt future actions or decisions.
The concept of 'the next big thing' is a staple in tech and fashion, driving innovation and trends.

Psychology

The anticipation of what is 'next' can trigger excitement and curiosity, motivating individuals to engage with future tasks.
Research shows that expectations of future events, labeled as 'next,' can significantly influence decision-making processes.
The ability to plan for 'next' is a vital cognitive function, linked to adaptability and problem-solving skills.

Literature

'Next' has been used in many literary contexts to evoke suspense, as the reader is often left wondering about what will happen subsequently.
Authors often employ the 'next' concept to develop plots where events unfold in sequences, enhancing narrative tension.
In poetry, the use of 'next' can create a sense of progression or change, reflecting the passage of time.

Translations

Translations of the word "next" in other languages:

🇵🇹 próximo

🇮🇳 अगला

🇩🇪 nächste

🇮🇩 berikut

🇺🇦 наступний

🇵🇱 następny

🇯🇵 次

🇫🇷 prochain

🇪🇸 siguiente

🇹🇷 sonraki

🇰🇷 다음

🇸🇦 التالي

🇨🇿 další

🇸🇰 ďalší

🇨🇳 下一个

🇸🇮 naslednji

🇮🇸 næsta

🇰🇿 келесі

🇬🇪 შემდეგი

🇦🇿 növbəti

🇲🇽 siguiente

Word Frequency Rank

With position #253, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.

...
250 various
251 due
252 act
253 next
254 yet
255 therefore
256 program
...