Definition of After
Quick Meaning of After
Later than or following something in time or order.
Detailed Definition of After
Happening or done at a time following something else.
How to Pronounce After
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables, stress on first. /æ/ sounds like in "cat", second syllable is /tər/ with schwa sound.
Watch out: Vowel sometimes shortened; /æ/ should be the clear "a" sound like in "cat" not "o" like in "otter".
Origin and Etymology of After
From Old English "æfter", of Germanic origin, related to "aft" (rear).
How to Use After in a Sentence
Each example shows “after” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“We had lunch after school ended.”
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“After the rain stopped, the sun came out.”
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“The director made major changes after reviewing the initial results.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of After
Common Synonyms for After
Smart Synonyms for After — When to Use Each
- following
- for formal or written contexts describing sequence
- once
- when action happens immediately after completion
Antonyms of After
Common Collocations with After
These phrases pair with “after” in everyday English:
- day after
- time after
- after all
- one after another
- after hours
Common Mistakes When Using After
Even fluent speakers slip up with “after”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: After I finish my homework I will sleep.
- ✓ Correct: After I finish my homework, I will sleep.
- Why: A comma is required after an introductory "after" clause to separate it from the main clause.
- ✗ Wrong: I see him after yesterday.
- ✓ Correct: I saw him yesterday.
- Why: The preposition "after" indicates future time from a reference point; use "yesterday" alone for past, or "after that day".
Other Forms of After
Frequently Asked Questions About After
What is the meaning of "After"?
Later than or following something in time or order.
How do you pronounce "After"?
The IPA is /ˈæf.tər/. Two syllables, stress on first. /æ/ sounds like in "cat", second syllable is /tər/ with schwa sound.
What part of speech is "After"?
"After" is a preposition at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "After"?
Common synonyms include following, once, when.
How do you use "After" in a sentence?
For example: "We had lunch after school ended."