Confusing words explained
“afterward” vs “afterwards” — What’s the Difference?
Both mean 'later'; 'afterward' is American English preferred.
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: afterward vs afterwards
Both mean 'later'; 'afterward' is American English preferred.
afterward vs afterwards Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of afterward
At a later or future time; after something else happens or is mentioned.
Something that happens at a later time, after an event or action.
Use 'afterward' in American English contexts for clarity and regional appropriateness.
- I went to the party and felt tired afterward.
- We finished the meeting, and the team chatted afterward.
Meaning of afterwards
At a later or future time; after something else happens or is mentioned (British variant).
Something that happens at a later time, after an event or action.
Use 'afterwards' in British English contexts or formal British writing.
- We had lunch, and afterwards we went to the cinema.
- She finished her homework, and afterwards she played outside.
Usage Notes & Nuance
afterward: More common in American English; British English prefers 'afterwards'.
afterwards: Preferred in British English and Commonwealth regions; American English more commonly uses 'afterward'.
How to Remember the Difference
American writers prefer afterward; British writers add the s for afterwards.
Common Mistakes with afterward and afterwards
Mistake with afterward
Correct: Afterward, the team celebrated.
Mistake with afterward
Correct: I went home afterward.
Mistake with afterwards
Correct: Afterwards, we celebrated.
Mistake with afterwards
Correct: I go home afterwards.
Practice Quiz: afterward or afterwards?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
I went to the party and felt tired _____.
Question 2
We finished the meeting, and the team chatted _____.
Question 3
Shortly _____, the rain began to fall heavily.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About afterward vs afterwards
What’s the difference between “afterward” and “afterwards”?
Both mean 'later'; 'afterward' is American English preferred.
When should I use “afterward”?
Use 'afterward' in American English contexts for clarity and regional appropriateness.
When should I use “afterwards”?
Use 'afterwards' in British English contexts or formal British writing.
How can I remember afterward vs afterwards?
American writers prefer afterward; British writers add the s for afterwards.
Is it “afterward” or “afterwards” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.