Definition

Adverb: At a time later than a specific point in time; following an event or period.

Usage

"Afterwards" is used to indicate that something happens or is done after a particular event, action, or time has passed. It connects a subsequent action to a prior one.

Examples

• She finished her work and afterwards went for a walk.
• We can discuss the details afterwards.
• The concert was excellent, and we met the band afterwards.

Advanced Usage

• "Soon/shortly/long afterwards": These phrases specify the relative length of time before the subsequent event.
  • He left the company, and soon afterwards started his own business.
• "Ever afterwards": Used for emphasis to mean "from that time forward continuously."
  • They had an argument and ever afterwards avoided each other.

Variants and Related Words

• Afterward (adverb): An alternative form, identical in meaning and usage to "afterwards." The choice is often a matter of regional or stylistic preference.
  • We had dinner and went to a movie afterward.

Synonyms

• Later: At a time in the future; after the present or a specified time.
• Subsequently: Following in time, order, or place; coming after something else.
• Then: At that time; next or after that.
• Thereafter: From that time onward.

Antonyms

• Beforehand: In advance; before an action or event.
• Previously: At a time before the present or before the time under discussion.
• Earlier: Happening or done before the present time or before the time one is referring to.

Adverb

1. happening at a time subsequent to a reference time
   • he apologized subsequently
   • he's going to the store but he'll be back here later
   • it didn't happen until afterward
   • two hours after that