I afterward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I afterward" is correct and usable in written English, though it may sound somewhat formal or old-fashioned.
You can use it to indicate that something happened after a particular event or time, often in a narrative context. Example: "I finished my work, and I afterward went for a long walk to clear my mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

At one point, as the meeting was proceeding, he emerged from his office to look for the pitching coach Dan Warthen, saw the assembled reporters and said with a laugh, "I've got a uniform on, don't I?" Afterward, Manuel said that no ultimatums were issued in the meeting and that he was not fearful for his job.

The New York Times - Sports

When Katzenbach finished, she asked him, " 'May I read it back to you?' Which I afterward thought may have been a little cruel, but yet I wanted to check it".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"And, if I realize afterward that I was wrong, I'll change the next person".

The New Yorker

I love it afterward".

The New York Times - Sports

When I went last year, how did I feel afterward?

Huffington Post

I'll have to see what I do afterward.

The New Yorker

I do things first and then I think afterward.

Vice

I do things first, and then I think afterward.

Vice

"I thought afterward he might".

The New York Times

And I stretch afterward".

The New York Times - Health

That was nice, I say afterward.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing narratives, using "I afterward" can help create a sense of chronological order, especially when detailing a series of actions or events.

Common error

Avoid using "I afterward" repeatedly in close succession. This can make your writing sound stilted. Vary your sentence structure and use synonyms to maintain a natural flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I afterward" functions as an introductory element within a clause, specifying the temporal sequence of actions performed by the speaker. It indicates that the action described follows a preceding event. Ludwig AI examples show its usage in narrative contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I afterward" is a grammatically sound way to indicate that an action occurred after a previous event. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, its formality should be considered. Alternatives like "I then" or "I later" are often more appropriate for casual contexts. The primary function of "I afterward" is to establish chronological order, and its register leans towards neutral to formal. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "I afterward" to enhance the clarity and flow of their narratives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I then

A more common and concise way to indicate the next action taken.

I later

Indicates a subsequent action, with a less formal tone.

I subsequently

A more formal alternative indicating the action that followed.

I thereafter

A more literary and formal option to denote the next action.

I then later

Adds emphasis on the time lapse between the events.

I soon after

Indicates that the action occurred shortly after the previous one.

I right after

Emphasizes the immediate succession of the action.

I proceeded to

A more descriptive alternative indicating the next action in a sequence.

I went on to

Highlights the continuation of a series of actions.

Following that, I

A slightly more elaborate phrase to introduce the next action.

FAQs

How can I use "I afterward" in a sentence?

You can use "I afterward" to describe an action you took after a previous event. For example, "I finished the meeting, and I afterward went for a walk."

What are some alternatives to "I afterward"?

You can use alternatives like "I then", "I later", or "I subsequently" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "I afterward" considered formal?

Yes, "I afterward" can sound formal or old-fashioned. In more casual contexts, consider using "I then" or "I later".

What's the difference between "I afterward" and "I afterwards"?

"I afterward" and "I afterwards" are often used interchangeably, although "I afterwards" is slightly more common in British English. Both indicate something that happened at a later time.