What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
when
Example
When did you arrive at the party? [when: interrogative adverb]
Example
I always feel happy when I'm with my friends. [when: subordinating conjunction]
after
Example
After the movie ended, we went out for dinner. [after: preposition]
Example
I'll call you after I finish my work. [after: subordinating conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
When is more commonly used than after in everyday language. When is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while after is more specific and often used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between when and after?
While when is typically associated with a neutral and informal tone, after is more formal and often used in technical or academic writing.
