If you’ve ever wondered whether you should write afterward or afterwards, you’re not alone. These two words look almost identical and have the same meaning, which makes them confusing for many English learners. You may see afterward in American books and websites, while afterwards often appears in British English. Understanding when and where to use each form helps you write more naturally and confidently. The good news is that neither word is wrong—they simply follow different regional spelling preferences. In this guide, you’ll learn the difference between afterward vs afterwards, discover practical examples, avoid common mistakes, and remember which form fits your audience.
Why “Afterward” and “Afterwards” Are Confusing
Many English learners assume that afterward and afterwards have different meanings because one ends with -s. In reality, they mean exactly the same thing.
Here are the main reasons people mix them up.
Similar Pronunciation
Both words are pronounced almost identically. The final s in afterwards is very soft, so many speakers barely notice it.
Similar Spelling
The only spelling difference is the extra s at the end of afterwards, making them easy to confuse when writing.
Context Confusion
Both words describe something that happens later or at a later time. Since they appear in the same situations, learners often wonder whether one is more correct.
Common Learner Mistakes
Common mistakes include:
- Thinking one word is grammatically incorrect.
- Mixing both spellings in the same document.
- Using afterwards in American writing where afterward is preferred.
- Believing the extra s changes the meaning.
Afterward vs Afterwards Explained Simply
The simplest explanation is this:
Afterward means “later” or “after that,” while afterwards also means “later” or “after that.”
One-Line Distinction
Afterward is the preferred American English spelling, while afterwards is the preferred British English spelling.
Examples
Afterward
- We went out for dinner, and afterward we watched a movie.
- She thanked everyone afterward.
Afterwards
- We visited the museum and afterwards had coffee.
- He apologized afterwards for arriving late.
Understanding Homophones in English
Although afterward and afterwards are not true homophones, they sound so similar that learners often treat them like one.
What Are Homophones?
Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings or spellings.
Example:
- Sea
- See
These words sound identical but have different meanings.
Why Homophones Cause Confusion
English contains many words with similar pronunciation. When learners hear a word first and learn its spelling later, they may choose the wrong version.
Example:
- Their
- There
- They’re
These words sound alike but serve different grammatical purposes.
What Does “Afterward” Mean?
Definition and Core Meaning
Afterward is an adverb that means:
- Later
- After that
- At a later time
- Following an event
It tells readers when something happens.
Origin and Historical Use
The word comes from Old English expressions meaning following in time. American English gradually adopted the version without the final s, making afterward the standard spelling in the United States.
Modern Usage and Synonyms
Common synonyms include:
- Later
- Subsequently
- Then
- Thereafter
- Following that
- Next
Example Sentences
- We cleaned the kitchen afterward.
- She called me afterward to explain.
- Everyone left, and afterward the room became quiet.
- I felt much better afterward.
What Does “Afterwards” Mean?
Definition and Core Meaning
Afterwards has exactly the same meaning as afterward.
It means:
- Later
- After that
- Following an event
The only difference is regional spelling.
Origin and Historical Context
British English has traditionally kept the final s in many adverbs such as:
- Towards
- Afterwards
- Backwards
As a result, afterwards remains common in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and many other English-speaking regions.
Modern Usage and Synonyms
Synonyms include:
- Later
- Subsequently
- Then
- Thereafter
- Following that
Example Sentences
- We spoke afterwards about the meeting.
- Afterwards, everyone returned home.
- She smiled afterwards.
- The rain stopped, and afterwards the sky became clear.
Afterward vs Afterwards: Key Differences at a Glance
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Afterward | Adverb | Later; after that | We went shopping afterward. |
| Afterwards | Adverb | Later; after that | We went shopping afterwards. |
Key takeaway: The meaning is identical. The preferred spelling depends on whether you’re writing in American or British English.
How to Remember the Difference Between Afterward and Afterwards
Fortunately, remembering the difference is easy.
Easy Memory Tricks
- American English = Afterward
- British English = Afterwards
Association Techniques
Think of it this way:
- USA likes shorter spellings → afterward
- UK often keeps the final s → afterwards
This pattern also appears with words like:
- Toward → Towards
- Backward → Backwards
Memorable Example
Imagine sending two emails.
For an American company:
We’ll discuss the report afterward.
For a British company:
We’ll discuss the report afterwards.
Both are correct because the audience is different.
Common Mistakes and Confusions
Here are mistakes learners frequently make.
Wrong
❌ We went home afterwards. (In formal American English writing.)
Better
✔ We went home afterward.
Explanation: American English generally prefers afterward.
Wrong
❌ Afterward, in my British school essay.
Better
✔ Afterwards, in my British school essay.
Explanation: British English usually prefers afterwards.
Wrong
❌ We ate dinner afterward, and afterwards we watched TV.
Better
✔ We ate dinner afterward, and afterward we watched TV.
or
✔ We ate dinner afterwards, and afterwards we watched TV.
Explanation: Stay consistent with one regional style.
Examples Section: Correct and Incorrect Usage
Example 1
✔ Correct: We talked afterward about the presentation.
✘ Incorrect: We talked after word about the presentation.
Example 2
✔ Correct: Afterwards, they went for a walk.
✘ Incorrect: Afterwards they goes for a walk.
Example 3
✔ Correct: I’ll call you afterward.
✘ Incorrect: I’ll afterward call you yesterday.
Example 4
✔ Correct: She apologized afterwards.
✘ Incorrect: She apologized afterwardly.
Example 5
✔ Correct: We celebrated afterward with cake.
✘ Incorrect: We celebrated afterwardsly.
Self Assessment: Test Your Knowledge
Fill in the blanks with afterward or afterwards.
1.
We watched a movie, and ________ we had dinner.
2.
In American English, the preferred spelling is ________.
3.
British English usually prefers ________.
4.
I finished my homework and ________ played football.
Self Assessment Answers
- afterward / afterwards (both are correct)
- afterward
- afterwards
- afterward / afterwards (both are correct)
FAQs About “Afterward and Afterwards”
Is afterward or afterwards more correct?
Neither is more correct. Both are grammatically correct. The choice depends on whether you are writing in American or British English.
Is afterward American English?
Yes. Afterward is the standard spelling in American English.
Is afterwards British English?
Yes. Afterwards is the preferred spelling in British English and many Commonwealth countries.
Do afterward and afterwards have different meanings?
No. They have exactly the same meaning: later or after that.
Can I use them interchangeably?
Yes. Just be consistent with the variety of English you are using.
Is afterwards considered incorrect in America?
Not usually. Americans understand it, but afterward is more common in American publications and style guides.
Which spelling should English learners use?
If you’re learning American English, use afterward. If you’re learning British English, use afterwards.
Final Conclusion: Using “Afterward” and “Afterwards” Correctly
The difference between afterward and afterwards is much simpler than many English learners expect. Both words are adverbs that mean later, after that, or following an event, and they can be used in exactly the same situations. The only real distinction is regional preference. Afterward is the standard choice in American English, while afterwards is more common in British English and many other varieties of English around the world.
When writing emails, essays, blog posts, or business documents, think about your audience before choosing a spelling. If you’re writing for readers in the United States, afterward is usually the better option. If your audience is in the United Kingdom, Australia, or another Commonwealth country, afterwards will sound more natural. Whatever you choose, remember to stay consistent throughout your writing instead of switching between the two forms.
A simple memory tip can help: American English usually prefers the shorter form, while British English often keeps the final “s.” Once you remember this pattern, you’ll not only master afterward vs afterwards but also recognize similar spelling differences in other English words. Keep reading, practicing, and paying attention to regional usage. Small details like these gradually build stronger writing skills and greater confidence in English communication.
David Parker is a language researcher and content writer at WordClarity.com, specializing in English word meanings, comparisons, spelling differences, and usage guides. He creates easy-to-understand content that helps readers improve clarity and confidence in everyday English. His work focuses on making language learning simple, accurate, and practical.