after all
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In spite of expectations or what was previously thought: Used to indicate that something happened or is true contrary to what was expected or believed.
- Used to introduce a statement that emphasizes a point to be considered, often one that justifies or explains a previous statement: Used to remind someone of an important fact or reason that should be considered.
Usage Examples
Adverb (Contrary to expectations):
- We thought the trip was canceled, but we went after all.
- He said he wouldn't help, but he did after all.
Adverb (Emphasizing a consideration):
- You should be polite to him; after all, he is your guest.
- Don't be too hard on yourself. After all, it was your first attempt.
Advanced Usage
- Position in a sentence: "After all" is commonly used at the end of a clause to show an unexpected outcome or at the beginning of a clause to introduce a justifying reason.
- End position: The weather was bad, but the picnic was fun after all.
- Beginning position: After all, we are a team, so we should support each other.
Variants and Related Words
- All in all: When everything is considered.
- All in all, it was a successful event.
- When all is said and done: Ultimately; in the end.
- When all is said and done, honesty is the best policy.
Synonyms
- Nevertheless: In spite of that.
- Nonetheless: In spite of what has just been said.
- All things considered: Taking everything into account.
- In the final analysis: When everything is considered.
Related Phrases
- Be after all: This is not a standard phrasal verb with "after all." The term "after all" functions as a fixed adverbial phrase.
Related Idioms
- All's well that ends well: A problematic situation that ended happily is considered good.
- The project had many issues, but it worked out after all—all's well that ends well.
Adverb
- in spite of expectations
- came to the party after all
- it didn't rain after all
- emphasizes something to be considered
- after all, she is your boss, so invite her
- he is, after all, our president