Definition

Adverb 1. After the normal or official closing time of a business, institution, or regular working period: Refers to activities occurring outside of standard operating or working hours.

Usage

The phrase "after hours" functions as an adverb to describe when an action takes place. It is typically used to indicate that something happens once the regular business day or official schedule has ended. * It modifies verbs related to work, access, or activity. * It often implies a sense of being unofficial, overtime, or exclusive to a time when the general public is not present.

Examples

• The manager stayed after hours to finish the report.
• Employees are not permitted to access the building after hours without special clearance.
• The bar serves a private membership after hours.
• He often worked after hours to meet project deadlines.

Advanced Usage

• As an adjective (hyphenated: after-hours): When used before a noun to describe something related to this time period.
  • We attended an after-hours party at the gallery.
  • The building has strict after-hours security protocols.

Variants and Related Words

• Overtime (n./adv.): Time worked beyond one's regular hours, often with extra pay.
• Post-business hours (n. phrase): A more formal synonym.
• Late-night (adj.): Pertaining to a late time at night, not specifically after closing time.

Synonyms

• After closing
• Outside (of) business hours
• Post-operational hours

Antonyms

• During hours
• Within business hours
• In regular time

Related Phrases/Idioms

• After-hours trading (Finance): Trading of securities on electronic markets outside of the official hours of a major exchange.
• After-dark: Pertaining to the time after sunset, emphasizing darkness rather than the end of a business period.

Adverb

1. not during regular hours
   • he often worked after hours