Have you ever wondered whether to use “afterward vs afterwards”? It can be confusing! Many people mix them up because they look and sound so similar.
But don’t worry! In this article, we will explain what each word means, how they are different, and how to use them correctly. We will also give you many examples, tables, and easy tips to remember the right word.
By the end, you will be an expert in using “afterward” and “afterwards” the right way!
Afterward vs Afterwards – What’s the Difference?
Both “afterward” and “afterwards” mean “at a later time.” You can use either one, and people will still understand you. The biggest difference is where they are used:
- “Afterward” is used in American English.
- “Afterwards” is used in British English.
Even though both words mean the same thing, their usage depends on who is speaking and where they are from. In the United States, most people prefer to say “afterward” because American English tends to drop the extra “s” at the end of many adverbs. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries that follow British English rules, people are more likely to use “afterwards.” This small spelling difference reflects broader patterns in American and British English, where Americans often simplify words and British English retains older forms.
Another key thing to note is that both words are correct and acceptable in writing and speaking. Whether you choose “afterward” or “afterwards” depends on your audience and personal preference. If you are writing for a British newspaper or audience, “afterwards” might look more natural. But if you are writing for an American website, “afterward” would be the better choice.
Etymology (Word History)
Both words come from Old English “æfterwearde,” which means “toward the back” or “later.” Over time, people in different countries started using different versions of the word. The “s” at the end of “afterwards” comes from an older English convention of forming adverbs, which is why you will also see words like “towards,” “forwards,” and “backwards” in British English, but not as commonly in American English.
As English evolved, Americans dropped the “s” from many of these words, including “afterwards,” leading to the modern spelling “afterward.” Despite this difference, the meaning has remained the same for centuries, making both words completely interchangeable in terms of their function.
Table: Quick Comparison of “Afterward” and “Afterwards”
| Feature | Afterward | Afterwards |
| Meaning | At a later time | At a later time |
| Common in | American English | British English |
| Used in Writing? | Yes | Yes |
| Used in Speaking? | Yes | Yes |
| Formal or Informal? | Both | Both |
| Ends in ‘s’? | No | Yes |
| Example Sentence | “Let’s eat lunch, and afterward, we’ll play.” | “Let’s eat lunch, and afterwards, we’ll play.” |
Read More: Brief vs Debrief: Easy Guide to Understand Key Differences
What Is “Afterward”?
Definition
“Afterward” is an adverb. This means it describes when something happens. It means “at a later time.”
Usage in Sentences
- We went to the park, and afterward, we had ice cream.
- She finished her homework and felt happy afterward.
- The game ended, and the players shook hands afterward.
Contextual Usage
- Used more in the U.S.
- Works in formal and informal situations.
- Used in books, articles, and everyday speech.
What Is “Afterwards”?
Definition
“Afterwards” is also an adverb. It means the same thing as “afterward” – “at a later time.”
Usage in Sentences
- We saw a movie, and afterwards, we went home.
- He apologized and explained himself afterwards.
- The teacher gave a lesson, and afterwards, the students asked questions.
Contextual Usage
- Used more in the U.K.
- Works in formal and informal situations.
- Common in stories, conversations, and news.
Key Differences Between “Afterward” and “Afterwards”
| Feature | Afterward | Afterwards |
| Meaning | At a later time | At a later time |
| Preferred In | U.S. English | U.K. English |
| Used in Speaking? | Yes | Yes |
| Used in Writing? | Yes | Yes |
| Grammar Role | Adverb | Adverb |
| Ends in ‘s’? | No | Yes |
| Example Sentence | “She went to bed. Afterward, she dreamed.” | “She went to bed. Afterwards, she dreamed.” |
Example Scenarios to Show the Difference
- American English Example:
- “We finished dinner. Afterward, we watched TV.”
- British English Example:
- “We finished dinner. Afterwards, we watched TV.”
- Both are Correct:
- “They won the match and celebrated afterward/afterwards.”
Why Do People Confuse “Afterward” and “Afterwards”?
- They sound alike – Both words mean the same thing.
- Spelling differences – “Afterwards” has an “s” at the end.
- Regional preferences – Americans use “afterward,” and Brits use “afterwards.”
- Grammar myths – Some people think one is more correct, but both are fine!
Synonyms & Antonyms
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
| Afterward | Later, subsequently, next | Before, prior, earlier |
| Afterwards | Later, then, subsequently | Before, prior, earlier |
Which One Should You Use? (Easy Tips for Writers)
- If you write for Americans, use “afterward.”
- If you write for Brits, use “afterwards.”
- In speaking, both are okay!
- Tip: If you see “s” in British words like “towards,” “forwards,” or “backwards,” remember that “afterwards” fits in!
More Tables for Easy Learning
Table: When to Use Each Word
| Situation | Use “Afterward” | Use “Afterwards” |
| Talking to an American | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Talking to a Brit | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Writing a school essay | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Speaking with friends | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Table: Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Use |
| “He will go afterwardly.” | ❌ Not a word! Use “He will go afterward.” |
| “They left afterword.” | ❌ Wrong spelling! Use “They left afterward.” |
Read More: Informational vs Informative: Easy Guide to Correct Usage
Final Thoughts
Choosing between “afterward vs afterwards” is easier than it seems. Both words mean the same thing, but “afterward” is commonly used in American English, while “afterwards” is preferred in British English. Whether you’re writing or speaking, either option works depending on your audience. The key is consistency—if you’re writing for an American audience, stick with “afterward,” and if you’re writing for a British audience, use “afterwards.”
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong choice—only a regional preference. So, don’t overthink it! Now that you understand the difference, you can use either word confidently. Which one do you use more? Let us know in the comments!
