Afterward vs Afterwards: Is There Any Difference?

Have you ever paused mid-sentence, wondering whether to write “afterward” or “afterwards”? You’re not alone. Many writers, from business communication professionals scheduling meetings to students managing project calendars, stumble over these small but significant details. Understanding the subtle differences can improve your English usage, ensure consistency in formal writing, and even enhance clarity in online booking confirmations, broadcasting schedules, and other time-sensitive communications. In short, knowing when to use the correct form helps you have fun with writing while staying professional.

In this article, we’ll explore the distinction between “afterward” vs. “afterwards”, highlighting regional preferences like US versus UK English and offering tips aligned with style guides. We’ll cover practical scenarios including meetings, scheduling, calendar management, and project planning, showing how precise grammar strengthens time management and overall communication.

By the end, you’ll feel confident using either form naturally, enhancing both your formal writing and day-to-day correspondence.

What Does “Afterward” Mean?

“Afterward” is an adverb that indicates something happening later in time. It’s most commonly used in American English, particularly in formal writing. Understanding this word helps you write sentences that are clear, precise, and professional.

Examples in sentences:

• We went to the park, and afterward, we grabbed ice cream.
• She completed the project; afterward, she relaxed for the evening.
• He studied all week; afterward, he felt confident during the test.

Notice that “afterward” always follows an initial action, connecting it to what happens next. This makes the sequence of events easy to follow.

Usage Tips:

1. American English Preference: “Afterward” is the standard in the U.S.
2. Formal Writing: Works well in essays, reports, and business emails.
3. Avoid Overuse: Don’t start every sentence with it; variety keeps writing natural.

Afterward Examples Table

Sentence Example	Context	Notes
We had dinner; afterward, we watched a movie.	Casual	Clear sequence of events
He submitted his report; afterward, he relaxed at home.	Formal	Professional tone
They played soccer; afterward, they discussed strategy.	Academic	Good for essays

What Does “Afterwards” Mean?

“Afterwards” is an adverb that also indicates something occurring later, but it is more commonly used in British English. It is frequently used in everyday speech and informal writing in the UK.

Examples in sentences:

• We went to the theater, and afterwards, we went for a walk.
• She completed the assignment; afterwards, she called her friend.
• They finished dinner; afterwards, they went to the park.

Though “afterwards” has the same meaning as “afterward”, its spelling and regional preference differ. Using it in American writing isn’t wrong, but “afterward” is usually preferred in formal contexts.

Usage Tips:

1. British English Preference: Widely used in the UK.
2. Casual Tone: Works well in blogs, letters, and dialogue.
3. Formal Writing: Use carefully if your audience is American.

Afterwards Examples Table

Sentence Example	Region	Notes
We had tea; afterwards, we visited the museum.	UK	Casual or formal
He finished his homework; afterwards, he played football.	UK	Everyday speech
They attended the seminar; afterwards, they networked.	UK	Professional writing

Key Differences Between “Afterward” and “Afterwards”

While the meanings are identical, there are subtle differences:

1. Regional Usage:
   
   • Afterward: American English
   • Afterwards: British English
     
2. Formality:
   
   • Afterward is slightly more formal.
   • Afterwards is casual or conversational.
     
3. Pronunciation:
   
   • Afterward: /ˈæf.tɚ.wɚd/
   • Afterwards: /ˈɑːf.tə.wədz/
     
4. Sentence Position: Both can appear in the middle or at the end of a sentence, but “afterward” often sounds more polished in formal contexts.

Also Read This: Pre-Existing or Preexisting: Which One is Correct?

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Feature	Afterward	Afterwards
Region	US English	UK English
Formality	Slightly formal	Casual/neutral
Sentence Position	Middle or end	Middle or end
Example	We ate dinner; afterward, we walked home.	We ate dinner; afterwards, we walked home.

When to Use “Afterward”

If your readers are primarily American, “afterward” is generally the better choice. It works well in:

• Academic writing
• Business emails
• Professional articles and blogs

Examples:

• The team completed the project; afterward, they celebrated their success.
• He gave a detailed presentation; afterward, the audience asked questions.
• She finished her shift; afterward, she went straight to the gym.

Common Mistakes:

• Using “afterwards” in formal American writing may sound informal.
• Forgetting the sequence: “afterward” should always follow an initial event or action.

When to Use “Afterwards”

If your readers are primarily British, “afterwards” feels natural and widely accepted. It works in:

• Everyday writing
• Blogs and letters
• Literature and storytelling

Examples:

• They visited the museum; afterwards, they stopped for lunch.
• She attended the lecture; afterwards, she met her friends at the café.
• He finished his chores; afterwards, he relaxed with a book.

Tips for American writers using British sources:

• Retain “afterwards” when quoting UK authors.
• Use “afterward” for consistency in American-style writing.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though “afterward” and “afterwards” are similar, writers often make mistakes:

1. Mixing regions inconsistently
   
   • Incorrect (US formal writing): We had lunch; afterwards, we watched a movie.
   • Correct: We had lunch; afterward, we watched a movie.
     
2. Using the wrong form in formal writing
   
   • Remember: American formal writing prefers “afterward,” British writing prefers “afterwards.”
3. Overuse
   
   • Tip: Use synonyms like later, subsequently, then, or following that to avoid repetition.

Before-and-After Examples Table

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
We had a meeting; afterwards, we submitted the report.	We had a meeting; afterward, we submitted the report.	Use American form in US formal writing
She went to the store; afterward, she bought flowers.	She went to the store; afterwards, she bought flowers.	Use British form if audience is UK-based

Quick Reference Guide

Here’s a cheat sheet for writers:

Word	Region	Formality	Example	Notes
Afterward	US	Formal	We ate; afterward, we walked home.	Preferred in American English
Afterwards	UK	Casual	We ate; afterwards, we walked home.	Common in UK English
Tip	—	—	Use synonyms like “later” or “then”	Avoid repetition

Pro Tip: When in doubt, choose the version that matches your audience’s region.

FAQs About “Afterward” and “Afterwards”

1. What is the difference between “afterward” and “afterwards”?

 Both words mean the same—“at a later time”—but “afterward” is preferred in US English, while “afterwards” is more common in UK English.

2. Can I use “afterwards” in American English writing?

 Yes, but it may sound slightly formal or British. For business communication or formal writing in the US, “afterward” is generally recommended for consistency.

3. Is “afterward” more common in formal writing?

 In formal writing, scheduling, and project management contexts, “afterward” is often preferred in US style guides, whereas “afterwards” is acceptable in UK style guides.

4. How does using the correct form help in business communication?

 Using the right term ensures clarity and professionalism in meetings, online booking, broadcasting schedules, and calendar management, reducing potential misunderstandings.

5. Are “afterward” and “afterwards” interchangeable in all situations?

 Yes, they are technically interchangeable, but choosing the correct form based on regional preference and style guides enhances grammar consistency and overall readability.

Conclusion

In summary, while “afterward” and “afterwards” are largely interchangeable, understanding their regional preferences and proper usage can elevate your English writing. Whether you’re drafting formal emails, managing meetings, or coordinating project schedules, using the correct form ensures clarity, consistency, and professionalism. Paying attention to these subtle differences also strengthens your time management and business communication skills, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—getting tasks done efficiently and still having fun with your writing.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can confidently navigate grammar choices in both US and UK English, enhancing your communication across broadcasting, calendar management, online booking, and project planning. Small details make a big difference, and now you’re equipped to use afterward or afterwards correctly, every time.