After some time

USAGE SUMMARY

"after some time" is both correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a period of time following a past event. For example: "After some time, I was able to work through my feelings of regret."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After some time, we both turned away.

The New Yorker

After some time, their voices faded out.

The New Yorker

After some time, I heard a voice.

Independent

After some time, the relationship ended.

The New York Times

After some time, the energy is transferred back.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

After some time, the bull was returned to his stall.

The New Yorker

After some time, Zakariyya said, his mother returned.

The Guardian

After some time he came to the phone.

The Guardian - Music

After some time in a coma, she began to rally.

The Guardian - Film

After some time, the weight became too much and I had to remove it.

University of California, Berkeley

After some time, the email becomes unreadable.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "After some time", ensure that the context clearly indicates what event or situation is being referenced, providing clarity to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "After some time" without specifying the initial event or point of reference, which can make the timeline unclear. Always provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "After some time" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an event occurred. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its role in setting a temporal context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "After some time" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the passage of time before an event occurs. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and common in various contexts, including news, science, and informal writing. When using "After some time", ensure that the context clearly specifies the reference point to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "eventually", "after a while", and "subsequently". The phrase is generally neutral in tone and can be used in a variety of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

After a while

A more casual and less specific way of indicating the passage of time.

Eventually

Focuses on the final outcome or result after a period.

As time goes by

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of time's passage.

In due course

Implies that something will happen at the appropriate or expected time.

With the passage of time

A more formal way to express the effect of time passing.

Subsequently

Highlights the sequence of events, with one following the other.

In the long run

Implies an extended period and focuses on the ultimate result.

Down the line

Refers to a point further in the future.

Sooner or later

Suggests that something will inevitably happen at some point in the future.

In the fullness of time

Suggests that something will happen when the time is right or after a significant period.

FAQs

How can I use "After some time" in a sentence?

You can use "After some time" to indicate that a certain duration has passed following an event. For instance, "After some time, I was able to understand the complex concept."

What are some alternatives to "After some time"?

Some alternatives include "eventually", "after a while", or "subsequently". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "After some time" or "After a while"?

"After some time" and "after a while" are quite similar and often interchangeable. "After some time" can sound slightly more formal, but both are generally acceptable in most contexts.

Can I use "After some time" at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, "After some time" can be used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the idea that a period has passed. For example, "After some time, the situation began to improve."