What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
afterwards
Example
We went to the movies, and afterwards we had dinner. [afterwards: adverb]
Example
Afterwards, I realized my mistake and apologized. [afterwards: noun]
after
Example
After the movie, we went out for dinner. [after: preposition]
Example
I'll call you after I finish work. [after: conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
After is more commonly used than afterwards in everyday language. After is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while afterwards is less common and is often used in more formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between afterwards and after?
Afterwards is more formal than after and is often used in written English. However, both words can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
