What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
afterthought
Example
As an afterthought, I realized I should have asked for her phone number. [afterthought: noun]
Example
He added an afterthought to the email, apologizing for any confusion. [afterthought: adjective]
footnote
Example
The footnote on page 23 explains the historical context of the event. [footnote: noun]
Example
As a footnote, I should mention that the data is based on estimates and may not be entirely accurate. [footnote: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Footnote is more commonly used than afterthought in written communication, such as books, articles, or documents. Afterthought is more commonly used in spoken language, but it is less common overall than footnote.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between afterthought and footnote?
Footnote is typically associated with a formal or academic tone, while afterthought is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
