later
LAY-tuh
Later (adv) means At a subsequent or future time. Example: “We can discuss this later.”
adv
1
At a subsequent or future time.
"We can discuss this later."
"He arrived at the party later than everyone else."
"I'll call you back later, once I've finished cooking dinner."
intj
1
(informal) Used as a casual goodbye.
""Later!" she called as she jumped on her bike."
"Later, mate! See you at the match tomorrow."
"Right, I'm heading out now, so later, everyone!"
How to use later
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAfterward, at some point in the future — or, as an interjection, a breezy way to say goodbye.
When to use it
"Later" as a standalone goodbye is casual and mostly spoken.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
sooner or later
see you later
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Etymology
From Old English lator, the comparative form of "late".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for later
See all rhymes for later →Frequently asked questions
What does “later” mean?
The word “later” means at a subsequent or future time. In plain terms, afterward, at some point in the future — or, as an interjection, a breezy way to say goodbye.
How do you pronounce “later”?
“Later” is pronounced LAY-tuh (/ˈleɪ.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “later” in a sentence?
Here is “later” used in a sentence: “We can discuss this later.”
What part of speech is “later”?
Depending on how it is used, “later” can be an adverb and an intj.
Where does the word “later” come from?
The word “later” comes from Old English. From Old English lator, the comparative form of "late".
Is “later” a common word?
“Later” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “later” have?
“Later” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: at a subsequent or future time.
What is the difference between later and latter?
'Later' refers to time — something happening afterward: 'See you later.' 'Latter' refers to the second of two things already mentioned: 'tea or coffee — I prefer the latter.' They sound similar but are never interchangeable. If you mean a point in time, always use 'later.'
What is the difference between later and after?
'Later' can stand alone to mean at some future point: 'I'll call later.' 'After' usually needs a reference point, marking what follows something else: 'after lunch.' In short, 'later' is a general time adverb, while 'after' links one event to another.
What is the opposite of later?
The opposite of 'later' is 'earlier' or 'sooner,' both pointing to a time closer to now or before the moment in question. 'Now' also contrasts with 'later,' as in 'do it now, not later.' The right opposite depends on whether you mean before or immediately.
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