after describing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "after describing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something follows or occurs subsequent to a description being provided. Example: "After describing the main features of the product, the presenter moved on to discuss its benefits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Did my son have a stroke?" she asked after describing the incident.

The New York Times - Magazine

After describing the fight for the phone and the struggle that ensued, he stopped his recitation.

The New York Times

After describing the operation, the briefers fielded questions: What if a mob surrounded the compound?

The New Yorker

After describing my problem to a colleague, he discreetly offered me a sleeping aid.

The New York Times

After describing her the speaker said: "And look at that beautiful little blond girl.

The New Yorker

After describing Emanuel's remarks, Olmert went on to agree with them.

The New Yorker

Watkins wiped away tears after describing his emotions when he realized what he had done.

The New York Times - Sports

"Is that an impeachable offense?" he asked repeatedly, after describing ways he had helped individuals.

The New York Times

After describing his latest trip to Italy, Nino would say, "But Jay, Jay!

The New Yorker

Author now goes on after describing metropolitan life, with the story.

The New Yorker

After describing each program, the stranger wrote some version of the phrase, "This I can prove".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger verbs or more vivid language in place of "describing" to enhance the impact and precision of your writing.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by placing the clause containing "after describing" as close as possible to the subject it modifies. For example, instead of "After describing the scene, the police took notes," write "The police took notes after describing the scene."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "after describing" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. It introduces a clause that specifies the timing or condition under which the main action of the sentence occurs. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples where "after describing" sets the stage for the subsequent event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

31%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Huffington Post

8%

The New Yorker

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "after describing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It indicates a chronological sequence where describing precedes another action. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles, including formal and informal contexts. While versatile, writers should be mindful of modifier placement to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "following a description of" for greater formality, and look into the many examples available in Ludwig AI.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following a description of

Replaces the verb with a noun phrase, offering a more formal tone.

subsequent to depicting

Uses a synonym for 'describing' and a more formal preposition.

having portrayed

Uses a perfect participle to indicate a completed action of describing.

once detailing

Indicates a point in time after the detailing has occurred.

upon illustrating

Implies immediacy after the act of illustration.

after an account of

Shifts focus to a 'report' or 'narrative' that has been given.

with the depiction of

Highlights the 'representation' or 'image' conveyed.

in the wake of explaining

Emphasizes the consequence after something has been explained.

post narration of

Uses a more concise phrasing indicating something happens after a story has been told.

on relating

Indicates the action is directly related to telling something

FAQs

How can I use "after describing" in a sentence?

You can use "after describing" to indicate that something happens subsequent to providing a description. For example, "After describing the symptoms, the doctor prescribed medication."

What are some alternatives to "after describing"?

Some alternatives to "after describing" include "following a description of", "subsequent to depicting", or "having portrayed" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "after describing" and "after the description"?

"After describing" is a prepositional phrase that introduces a clause with a verb. "After the description" uses a noun and would require a different sentence structure, such as "After the description, the analysis began."

Can I use "after describing" in formal writing?

Yes, "after describing" is suitable for formal writing, as demonstrated by its usage in news articles and academic papers. However, consider using a more formal alternative like "following a description of" for added formality.