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Afterward vs. Afterwards

Afterward vs. Afterwards: Understanding the Differences and Usage

When it comes to the English language, nuances can make a significant difference in meaning and usage. One such pair of terms that often raises questions is "afterward" vs. "afterwards." While these words are nearly identical in meaning, their usage can vary based on region and context. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two terms, offer examples, and discuss best practices for usage.

What Do "Afterward" and "Afterwards" Mean?

Both “afterward” and “afterwards” refer to a point in time that follows an event or action. They are adverbs used to denote something that occurs later or subsequent to a specified time.

Definitions:

Afterward: This term is more commonly used in American English.
Afterwards: This term is typically preferred in British English.

Sources:

For a detailed look at these definitions, you can check out the Merriam-Webster Dictionary and Cambridge Dictionary.

Regional Preferences

One of the most significant distinctions between "afterward" and "afterwards" is the geographic preference for each term:

American English: In the United States, “afterward” is the preferred term. It is frequently used in both written and spoken forms.
British English: In the UK and other regions that follow British English conventions, “afterwards” is more commonly used.

Example Sentences:

American English: "We went for dinner; afterward, we watched a movie."
British English: "We had a lovely lunch; afterwards, we took a walk in the park."

Contextual Usage

Both terms function as adverbs in sentences, but you may want to consider the tone and style of your writing when choosing which to use. Here are some contextual examples:

Formal Writing: In formal contexts such as academic papers or official documents, it is often safer to stick with “afterward” in American English and “afterwards” in British English.
Creative Writing: In novels or literary works, authors may choose either term based on character dialogue or narrative voice.

Grammar Resources:

For more guidance on adverb usage, you can refer to Purdue OWL’s Usage of Adverbs.

Conclusion

In summary, both “afterward” and “afterwards” mean the same thing but are used differently based on regional preferences. If you are writing for an American audience, "afterward" is the best choice. Conversely, if your audience is primarily British, "afterwards" would be more appropriate. Ultimately, understanding these subtle differences can enhance your writing and ensure your message is effectively communicated.

Additional Resources

For further reading on English language nuances, consider visiting:

By paying attention to the context in which you’re writing and the audience you are addressing, you can make informed choices about when to use “afterward” versus “afterwards.” Happy writing!

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