What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
postface
Example
The author included a postface to explain their inspiration for writing the book. [postface: noun]
Example
I wrote a postface to my thesis to thank my advisors and reflect on my research journey. [postface: noun]
afterword
Example
The editor added an afterword to provide context for the historical events mentioned in the novel. [afterword: noun]
Example
The author wrote an afterword to reflect on the impact of their book on society. [afterword: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Afterword is more commonly used than postface in English-language books. While both terms refer to the same end-of-book section, afterword is more versatile and can be used in various contexts and tones.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between postface and afterword?
Postface is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while afterword can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
