Afterward vs. Afterwards
Cambridge marks “afterward” as the US form and “afterwards” as mainly UK, with the same adverbial meaning. The guide treats the choice as a documented variant boundary rather than assuming that one form is universally incorrect.
Both are standard adverbs. “Afterward” is usual in US English; “afterwards” is especially common in UK English.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Audience / style | Preferred form | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| US English | afterward | Usual US form. |
| UK English | afterwards | Especially common UK form. |
| Mixed or international publication | follow house style | Both are standard and mean “at a later time.” |
Quick tests
Regional-style test
Does the publication follow US spelling?
If yes: Prefer “afterward.”
If no: In UK-oriented style, “afterwards” is especially common; otherwise follow house style.
Caveat: The forms do not express different time relationships; the distinction is primarily regional/style preference.
Examples
US style: We met for coffee afterward.
“Afterward” is usual in US English.
UK style: We met for coffee afterwards.
“Afterwards” is especially common in UK English.
Further guidance
Core difference
The main meaning is the same: at a later time.
Style Boundary
Choose the form that matches the regional or house style of the document and keep it consistent.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Afterward — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Afterward as US form and afterwards as mainly UK form