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 went out for dinner. [afterwards: adverb]

Example

Afterwards, I realized that I had forgotten my keys at home. [afterwards: noun]

then

Example

We went to the movies and then we went out for dinner. [then: adverb]

Example

I finished my homework and then I watched TV. [then: conjunction]

Definitions of afterwards and then

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Key differences and similarities of afterwards and then

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Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Then is more commonly used than afterwards in everyday language. Then is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while afterwards is less common and has a more formal connotation.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between afterwards and then?

Afterwards has a more formal connotation than then, which is more commonly used in everyday language. Therefore, afterwards is more appropriate for formal writing or speech, while then can be used in both formal and informal contexts.