Difference Between After & Afterwards

After and Afterwards are two distinct words in the English language. The term “after” is used to convey the idea of something happening once something or someone has passed, as in the examples:
1. I shall come after 7 pm.
2. He will get his chance after David gets his chance.
In both instances, the word “after” signifies the idea that the event will occur once the preceding event has passed.

Conversely, “afterwards” is used to denote the idea of something occurring later, as in the examples:
1. I shall come afterwards.
2. He apologized afterwards.
In these cases, “afterwards” indicates that the event will take place later.

Both “after” and “afterwards” function as adverbs in sentences. The word “after” is often used in phrases such as “look after” and “go after,” while “afterwards” is sometimes used to mean “thereafter.” Additionally, “after” can be used as a conjunction within a sentence, as in the example “I went at 3 o’clock after which she came too.”

Key Takeaways

• “After” is used to convey the idea of something happening once something or someone has passed.
• “Afterwards” is used to denote the idea of something occurring later.
• Both “after” and “afterwards” function as adverbs in sentences, and “after” can also be used as a conjunction.