Introduction

Choosing between “afterwards” and “afterward” can be confusing, especially if you’re unsure about regional language differences. Both words share the same meaning—”at a later time”—but their usage depends on geographical preferences.

In American English, “afterward” is the standard choice, used in formal and informal writing. On the other hand, British English favors “afterwards,” which includes an extra “s” but retains the same meaning. While both versions are grammatically correct, picking the right one ensures your writing aligns with your audience’s expectations.

Understanding these distinctions helps you write more clearly, avoid unnecessary corrections, and maintain consistency in your work. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone looking to polish your grammar, knowing when to use “afterwards” or “afterward” can improve your writing precision.

What Do “Afterwards” and “Afterward” Mean?

Both “afterwards” and “afterward” serve as adverbs, meaning they describe the timing of an action. They indicate that something happens at a later time compared to a previous event. Writers frequently use these words to establish a chronological sequence, making it clear when one event follows another.

For example, in the sentence “She finished her work and went for a walk afterward,” the word “afterward” clarifies that the walk happened after the work was completed. Similarly, “He studied for hours and relaxed afterwards” conveys the same idea, with only a slight spelling variation.

Despite their identical meanings, the choice between “afterwards” and “afterward” depends on regional language differences. American English prefers “afterward” without the “s,” while British English commonly uses “afterwards.” Understanding this distinction ensures proper usage, depending on your audience.

Key Difference Between “Afterwards” and “Afterward”

The primary distinction between “afterward” and “afterwards” lies in their regional usage rather than meaning. Both words indicate that something happens at a later time, but different English-speaking regions favor one over the other.

• “Afterward” is the standard spelling in American English. If you are writing for a U.S. audience, this is the correct choice. For example:
  • We went to the movies, and afterward, we had dinner.
• “Afterwards” is more common in British English. If your audience is from the U.K. or other countries that follow British conventions, this spelling is preferred. Example:
  • She completed her assignment and went out afterwards.

Although these words are interchangeable in meaning, using the preferred spelling based on your audience helps maintain consistency and professionalism in writing. If you’re unsure which to use, consider your target readers—”afterward” for Americans and “afterwards” for Brits.

Examples in Sentences

Using these words in context can help clarify their correct usage. Here are examples for both spellings:

• American English: “We went to dinner, and afterward, we saw a movie.”
• British English: “We had tea, and afterwards, we went for a walk.”

Why Does American English Drop the “S”?

The difference stems from language simplification. American English often removes extra letters or sounds to streamline words. For instance, “towards” becomes “toward,” and “forwards” shortens to “forward.”

Other Words with Similar Differences

Several words follow the same pattern as “afterwards” and “afterward”:

• British English: towards, forwards, upwards, backwards.
• American English: toward, forward, upward, backward.

Which One Should You Use?

If you’re writing for an American audience, “afterward” is the correct choice. If your readers are from the UK, Canada, or Australia, “afterwards” is more natural. Consistency is crucial in professional writing, so pick one form and stick with it throughout your content.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When using “afterward” and “afterwards”, writers often make small but noticeable mistakes. Here’s how to avoid confusion and maintain clarity in your writing:

• Mixing both spellings in one document – Consistency is key in professional and academic writing. Using both “afterward” and “afterwards” in the same text can confuse readers and make your work look inconsistent. To avoid this, choose one based on your audience and stick with it throughout your document.
• Using “afterwards” in American writing – While Americans will understand “afterwards”, it can sound outdated or out of place. If you’re writing for a U.S. audience, always use “afterward” to ensure your writing aligns with standard American English.
• Hesitating because of their identical meanings – Many writers overthink which word to use, even though both mean the same thing. Instead of pausing to debate the difference, remember the simple rule: Use “afterward” for American English and “afterwards” for British English. This eliminates hesitation and ensures smooth writing.

When to Use “Afterward” in Formal Writing

In formal American English, the preferred spelling is “afterward.” This is the version you should use in academic, business, and journalistic writing when addressing a U.S. audience. While “afterwards” is not incorrect, it can seem outdated or out of place in professional American publications.

• Academic Writing – Universities, research papers, and essays follow American English conventions, so “afterward” is the correct choice. Using “afterwards” may be flagged as an inconsistency in formal writing.
• Professional and Business Communication – In emails, reports, or corporate documents, “afterward” aligns with standard U.S. business English. Using “afterwards” might make your writing look less polished or overly influenced by British English.
• Journalistic and Media Writing – Newspapers, magazines, and online publications in the U.S. prefer “afterward” to maintain consistency with American English grammar rules. Major outlets like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal use this form in their writing.

To maintain a professional and polished tone, always opt for “afterward” in American formal writing.

Popularity and Usage Trends

• “Afterward” is more frequent in the U.S. due to style guides favoring streamlined spellings.
• “Afterwards” is commonly seen in British newspapers and literature.
• Search engine data shows that “afterward” is dominant in U.S. searches, while “afterwards” leads in the UK.

FAQs About “Afterwards” and “Afterward”

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

Both mean “at a later time,” but “afterward” is preferred in American English, while “afterwards” is more common in British English.

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

Technically, yes, but it may sound outdated or out of place in formal American writing.

3. Is “afterward” more formal than “afterwards”?

No, they have the same meaning, but “afterward” is the correct choice in formal American writing.

4. Do “afterwards” and “afterward” function differently in a sentence?

No, both are adverbs and can replace each other without changing the meaning.

5. Which spelling should I use in academic writing?

Use “afterward” if following American English standards, especially in U.S. universities and publications.

6.Can I mix both spellings in the same document?

No, mixing them can confuse readers and make your writing inconsistent.

7. Do other English words follow this pattern?

Yes, words like “toward/towards” and “forward/forwards” follow similar American vs. British spelling differences.

8. How can I remember which version to use?

If writing for an American audience, drop the “s” and use “afterward.” If writing for a British audience, “afterwards” is acceptable.

9. Is “afterward” used in casual speech?

Yes, Americans naturally say and write “afterward” in both formal and informal conversations.

10. Does it matter which one I use online?

It depends on your audience. If writing for an international audience, consistency is key.

Conclusion

The difference between “afterwards” and “afterward” is purely regional. If you’re writing for an American audience, “afterward” is the preferred choice. For British readers, “afterwards” is more appropriate. Both words convey the same meaning, so your choice depends on consistency and audience preference.