Afterward vs Afterwards: What’s the Real Difference?

Mia Rose

English is filled with small word variations that confuse even seasoned writers. One such pair is “afterward” vs “afterwards.” At first glance, they seem identical—but are they really? Understanding the difference is important for anyone aiming to write with clarity, especially in professional, academic, or international contexts. While both words function as adverbs meaning at a later time, their usage often depends on regional spelling and editorial style guides.

Why Is There Confusion Between “Afterward” and “Afterwards”?

Let’s get this out of the way: both words are correct. That’s right—there’s no “wrong” choice between afterward and afterwards. But there is confusion, and it comes from a few common sources:

  • Similar pronunciation: They sound nearly identical when spoken.
  • Shared meaning: Both mean later in time or at a future point.
  • Regional spelling habits: American and British English treat these words differently.
  • Editorial inconsistency: Different publishers or platforms favor one form over the other.

People often assume that one version is more “formal,” “proper,” or “modern,” but none of these assumptions are grounded in grammar. Instead, the differences come down to style and geography.

What Do “Afterward” and “Afterwards” Actually Mean?

Both afterward and afterwards function as adverbs and convey the same basic meaning:

“At a later time” or “subsequently.”

Dictionary Definitions

WordDictionary DefinitionPart of Speech
AfterwardAt a later or subsequent time. — Merriam-WebsterAdverb
AfterwardsHappening at a time following an event. — OxfordAdverb

Whether you’re going to the movies afterward or afterwards, the meaning is still the same: you’re doing something later.

“Afterward” vs “Afterwards”: Is There a Difference?

From a grammatical standpoint? No.
From a stylistic or regional perspective? Yes.

Style Differences at a Glance:

FeatureAfterward (no “s”)Afterwards (with “s”)
RegionUnited StatesUnited Kingdom, Australia
StyleSlightly more modernSlightly more traditional
Tone (perception)Concise, neutralStory-like, flowing
Frequency in textsMore common in US mediaMore common in UK novels

British English vs American English: The Real Reason for the Spelling Shift

To understand why both versions exist, let’s zoom out and look at a broader spelling trend in English.

The “-ward” vs “-wards” Pattern

British English tends to add an “s” at the end of certain directional adverbs, while American English prefers the shorter form.

Here are some classic examples:

British English (with “s”)American English (without “s”)
towardstoward
forwardsforward
onwardsonward
backwardsbackward
afterwardsafterward

The meanings don’t change—but the spellings reflect regional conventions.

Real Usage Statistics

According to Google Ngram Viewer:

  • “Afterward” dominates in American literature.
  • “Afterwards” is far more common in British texts.

Quote from The Chicago Manual of Style:
“In American English, ‘afterward’ is preferred. The ‘-s’ version is chiefly British.”

Which One Should You Use: “Afterward” or “Afterwards”?

Still not sure which to choose? Here’s a quick guide based on context and audience.

Use “Afterward” If:

  • You’re writing for an American audience.
  • You’re following APA, Chicago, or MLA guidelines.
  • You’re writing for the web, especially content-heavy blogs or corporate articles.

Use “Afterwards” If:

  • You’re writing for a British, Australian, or South African audience.
  • Your tone is narrative, literary, or conversational.
  • You’re referencing classical or older British texts.

Editorial Tip:

If you’re writing for an international audience, pick one style and stick with it throughout your piece. That consistency boosts credibility and readability.

Examples in Real-Life Contexts

Let’s look at how these words are used naturally in sentences.

Examples Using “Afterward” (American English)

  • We grabbed coffee afterward and discussed the project.
  • He left the meeting and went home afterward.
  • There was a surprise waiting for her afterward.
  • Let’s take questions afterward.

Tone: Crisp, clean, business-friendly.

Examples Using “Afterwards” (British English)

  • They had dinner and went for a walk afterwards.
  • Afterwards, she felt a sense of peace.
  • The team celebrated afterwards with drinks at the pub.
  • He arrived late but joined us afterwards.

Tone: Flowing, descriptive, often used in storytelling.

Synonyms and Similar Terms

Looking to mix it up or avoid repetition? There are plenty of strong alternatives to “afterward” and “afterwards.”

Synonyms for Both “Afterward” and “Afterwards”

  • Later
  • Subsequently
  • Then
  • In the end
  • At a later time

These work well in both casual and formal contexts.

More Specific Alternatives by Context

ContextAlternatives
StorytellingLater on, eventually, in time
Formal writingSubsequently, thereafter, at a later point
ConversationalThen, next, from there
Cause-and-effectAs a result, consequently, in return

Using alternatives can help your writing sound varied and engaging, while still conveying the timeline clearly.

Word Origins: A Look into Their History

Language evolves, and these two adverbs offer a fascinating glimpse into English history.

Origins of “Afterward”

The word “afterward” comes from Middle English afterwarde, derived from Old English æfterweard.

  • “æfter” = after
  • “weard” = direction or ward

The “ward” suffix was used to imply motion or direction in time or space.

Origins of “Afterwards”

The “-s” ending was added in later Middle English, possibly under influence from adverbs like sometimes, always, and anyways (though the latter is now considered informal).

The “-s” ending became more popular in British English as a stylistic choice.

Fun Fact:

Even though both forms existed as early as the 14th century, regional printing practices solidified their distinctions during the 18th and 19th centuries—especially with the rise of American publishing houses like Webster’s Dictionary.

FAQs: Afterward vs Afterwards

1. How to use “afterward” and “afterwards”?

Use either to mean “later” or “following that.” Example: We went to dinner, and afterward, we took a walk.

2. Is “afterwards” American or British?

“Afterwards” is British English. Americans typically use “afterward” without the “s.”

3. When can I use “afterward”?

Use “afterward” in American English writing—especially in business, journalism, or academic contexts.

4. When should I use “afterwards”?

Use “afterwards” in British English or when writing in a conversational, narrative, or literary tone.

5. Where to put “afterwards”?

Place it at the end or middle of a sentence to show sequence. Example: She smiled afterwards. or Afterwards, she smiled.

Conclusion: Afterward vs Afterwards—What Really Matters

The debate between “afterward” and “afterwards” isn’t about right or wrong—it’s about audience, context, and consistency. Both words carry the exact same meaning: something happening later in time. The key difference? Regional preference. If you’re writing for an American audience, stick with afterward. For a British, Australian, or international audience, afterwards might feel more natural.

What matters most is keeping your writing clear, consistent, and tailored to your reader. Now that you understand the subtle differences, the historical background, and how to use both with confidence, you can make smart editorial choices—whether you’re crafting a blog post, a business email, or a novel.

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