afterword

afterword

The author wrote a thoughtful afterword to conclude the novel.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Concluding section of a book: An "afterword" is a short section at the end of a book, typically written by the author or another contributor, that provides additional commentary, reflections, updates, or acknowledgments following the main text.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The author wrote an afterword to explain how the story continued after the novel's original ending. (A concluding commentary after the main text.)
    • In the afterword, the editor thanked the readers for their support during the book's publication. (A final section with acknowledgments.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to include an afterword": to add a concluding section to a written work.

    • The second edition of the textbook includes an afterword discussing recent research. (A new section added after the main content.)

  • "to write an afterword for someone else's book": to contribute a concluding commentary as a guest writer.

    • The famous critic wrote an afterword for the poet's collected works. (A guest contribution at the end of the book.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Foreword (n): a short introductory section at the beginning of a book, often written by someone other than the author.
    • The foreword by the expert gave context to the scientific study. (An introductory piece.)
  • Preface (n): an introduction to a book, typically explaining its scope, aims, or background.
    • The preface explains why the author chose this topic. (An introductory statement.)
  • Epilogue (n): a section at the end of a literary work that concludes the story or provides closure.
    • The epilogue reveals the protagonist's life years later. (A narrative conclusion, distinct from an afterword's commentary.)
Synonyms
  • Postscript: a note added at the end of a text, often abbreviated as P.S.
  • Addendum: an additional section added to a document or book.
  • Conclusion: the final part of something, though less specific to commentary.
Related Idioms

  • The final word: the last statement or commentary on a topic.

    • His afterword served as the final word on the debate. (The concluding authoritative statement.)

  • To have the last say: to provide the concluding opinion or remark.

    • The afterword gave the author the last say on the novel's meaning. (To offer a final perspective.)