What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subsequently
Example
The company experienced financial difficulties and subsequently had to lay off employees. [subsequently: adverb]
Example
The team lost the game, subsequently causing them to miss the playoffs. [subsequently: adverb]
afterwards
Example
We went to the movies and afterwards grabbed some dinner. [afterwards: adverb]
Example
She finished her work and afterwards went for a walk. [afterwards: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Afterwards is more commonly used than subsequently in everyday language. Afterwards is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while subsequently is less common and typically used in more formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subsequently and afterwards?
Subsequently is typically associated with a more formal tone, while afterwards is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
