When you want to talk about something happening later in time, you might wonder whether to use "afterwards" or "afterward." Both words mean the same thing—they refer to something happening after a particular event. But which one should you use? Is one more correct than the other? In this article, I’ll help you understand the difference between "afterwards" and "afterward," so you can use them confidently in your writing and speaking.
You’ll learn about their meanings, how they are used in different types of English, and some tips to remember which one fits best. By the end, you’ll see that choosing between "afterwards" and "afterward" is easier than you think. Let’s dive in!
What Do Afterwards and Afterward Mean?
Both "afterwards" and "afterward" are adverbs. They describe when something happens—specifically, something that happens later or following an event.
- Meaning: Both words mean "at a later time" or "after something else."
- Example: "We went to the park and afterwards/afterward had lunch."
They are interchangeable in meaning. The difference lies mainly in style and regional preferences.
How They Are Used in Sentences
You can use either word to show that one event follows another. For example:
- "She finished her homework and afterwards went to bed."
- "He called me and afterward sent a message."
Both sentences are correct and mean the same thing.
Regional Differences: British English vs American English
One of the biggest reasons people get confused about "afterwards" and "afterward" is because of where they learned English.
- British English: "Afterwards" is more common.
- American English: "Afterward" is preferred.
British English Preference
In the UK, "afterwards" is the usual choice. You’ll see it in books, newspapers, and everyday speech.
- Example: "We had dinner and afterwards watched a movie."
American English Preference
In the US, "afterward" is the standard form. It sounds more natural to American ears.
- Example: "She left the party and afterward went home."
What About Other English-Speaking Countries?
Countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand often follow British English rules, so "afterwards" is more common there. However, you might still hear "afterward" occasionally, especially in formal writing.
Both words are quite formal and can be used in writing and speech. However, "afterward" tends to appear more in formal American writing, while "afterwards" is common in British formal and informal contexts.
- Use "afterward" in American formal writing, such as essays, reports, and articles.
- Use "afterwards" in British formal writing.
Both words work well in casual conversations and informal writing. You can choose based on your audience or personal preference.
Spelling and Pronunciation Tips
The spelling difference is simple: "afterward" has no "s" at the end, while "afterwards" includes it.
- Pronunciation: Both words are pronounced almost the same.
- "Afterward" sounds like /ˈæftərwərd/
- "Afterwards" sounds like /ˈæftərwərdz/
The "s" at the end of "afterwards" adds a slight "z" sound but does not change the meaning.
How to Remember Which One to Use
If you’re unsure which form to use, here are some easy tips:
- Think about where your audience is from. Use "afterward" for American readers and "afterwards" for British readers.
- If you write for a global audience, pick one and stay consistent.
- Remember: "Afterward" is shorter and often preferred in American English.
- "Afterwards" feels more natural in British English and sounds a bit more casual.
Examples in Different Contexts
Here are some examples to help you see how both words work in real sentences.
| Context | British English Example | American English Example |
| Casual Speech | "We went shopping and afterwards grabbed coffee." | "We went shopping and afterward grabbed coffee." |
| Formal Writing | "The meeting ended; afterwards, the team discussed the results." | "The meeting ended; afterward, the team discussed the results." |
| Storytelling | "He left the house and afterwards met his friends." | "He left the house and afterward met his friends." |
| Instructions | "Finish the test and afterwards check your answers." | "Finish the test and afterward check your answers." |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though "afterward" and "afterwards" mean the same thing, some mistakes can happen:
- Mixing regional styles: Using "afterward" in British English writing might look odd, and vice versa.
- Using both in the same text: Stick to one form to keep your writing consistent.
- Confusing with "afterward" as an adjective: Remember, both are adverbs, not adjectives.
Other Words Similar to Afterwards and Afterward
Sometimes, you might want to use other words that mean the same thing. Here are some alternatives:
- Later
- Subsequently
- Thereafter
- Then
Each has a slightly different tone or formality level, but they all indicate something happening after another event.
When to Use Afterwards or Afterward in Your Writing
Choosing between "afterwards" and "afterward" depends on your writing style and audience.
- For American readers, use "afterward."
- For British readers, use "afterwards."
- In formal writing, follow the regional preference.
- In informal writing, either is fine, but be consistent.
If you’re writing for an international audience, pick one and stick with it throughout your text.
Summary Table: Afterwards vs Afterward
| Feature | Afterwards | Afterward |
| Meaning | At a later time | At a later time |
| Regional Preference | British English | American English |
| Formality | Formal and informal | Formal and informal |
| Spelling | Ends with "s" | No "s" at the end |
| Pronunciation | /ˈæftərwərdz/ | /ˈæftərwərd/ |
| Usage Tip | Use in UK and Commonwealth countries | Use in US and Canada |
Conclusion
Now you know that "afterwards" and "afterward" mean the same thing but differ mainly in regional use. If you write for British English readers, "afterwards" is your go-to word. For American English, "afterward" fits best. Both are correct and can be used in formal and informal contexts.
Remember, the most important thing is to be consistent in your writing. Pick one form based on your audience and stick with it. With this knowledge, you can confidently use "afterwards" or "afterward" without hesitation. Keep practicing, and soon it will feel natural to choose the right word every time.
FAQs
What is the difference between afterwards and afterward?
They mean the same thing—something happening later. The difference is mainly regional: "afterwards" is British English, and "afterward" is American English.
Can I use afterwards and afterward interchangeably?
Yes, they have the same meaning and can be used interchangeably, but it’s best to match your choice to your audience’s English style.
Both are formal enough for writing, but "afterward" is more common in American formal writing, while "afterwards" is preferred in British formal writing.
Is afterwards used in American English?
It is less common in American English but still understood. "Afterward" is the preferred form in the US.
How do you pronounce afterwards and afterward?
"Afterward" is pronounced /ˈæftərwərd/, and "afterwards" is /ˈæftərwərdz/. The "s" adds a slight "z" sound but does not change the meaning.
