afterwards

The word “afterwards” means at a later time; subsequently. In plain terms, later on, after something else has happened.

“Afterwards” is pronounced AHF-tuh-wuhdz (/ˈæf.tɚ.wɚdz/ in IPA).

Here is “afterwards” used in a sentence: “They had dinner and went to the cinema afterwards.”

The opposite of “afterwards” — its antonyms — is beforehand.

“Afterwards” is an adverb.

The word “afterwards” comes from Middle English. From Middle English afterwardes, built from "after" plus an adverbial ending.

“Afterwards” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

There is no difference in meaning; both mean 'at a later time.' The only distinction is regional: 'afterwards' (with the s) is the usual form in British English, while 'afterward' is more common in American English. Both are correct, so choose whichever matches your audience or house style.

Afterwards is neutral in tone and works in both formal and everyday writing. In more formal or academic contexts, 'subsequently' is a common alternative, while 'later' or 'then' feel more conversational. All of them express the same basic idea of something happening at a later point in time.

Close alternatives include 'later,' 'subsequently,' 'then,' 'thereafter,' and the phrase 'after that.' The best choice depends on tone: 'subsequently' suits formal writing, whereas 'later' and 'then' feel more natural in speech. Each one keeps the sense of one thing following another in time.