is after

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is after" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that one event or action follows another in time or sequence. Example: "The meeting is after the lunch break, so we have some time to prepare."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key word here is "after".

The New Yorker

Everyone is after you".

The New York Times

He is, after all, Belgian.

The Economist

The taxman is after him.

The Economist

He is, after all, 21.

The New York Times

"Everybody is after the money.

The New York Times

"She is after your barn".

Independent

This is, after all, Idaho.

The New York Times

He is after bigger game.

The New York Times - Books

Tetzlaff is after something different.

The New Yorker

Quarles is after the All.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is after", ensure the context clearly indicates whether it refers to temporal sequence or pursuit. Temporal meanings benefit from additional context for clarity.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clarifying whether "is after" means 'following in time' or 'pursuing'. Replace it with more explicit alternatives like "follows" or "seeks" when needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is after" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase indicating either temporal sequence (something occurring later) or active pursuit. Ludwig provides examples showing both uses in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is after" is a versatile prepositional phrase that can denote either temporal succession or pursuit. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While it's generally appropriate, clarity is key to avoiding ambiguity between its temporal and pursuit-related meanings. Consider alternative phrases like "follows" or "seeks" for enhanced precision and formality when necessary. Use this tool to ensure your writing is both accurate and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is pursuing

This alternative emphasizes a direct attempt to obtain something, similar to "is after" but more forceful.

is seeking

This alternative implies a more general search or quest, less targeted than "is after".

is following

Focuses on the action of going behind or tracking.

comes next

Indicates temporal sequence rather than pursuit.

supervenes

This term refers to something subsequent and often unexpected, presenting a formal substitute.

is subsequent to

This alternative indicates a strict temporal order.

is hunting

Implies a literal pursuit, usually of something that is difficult to catch.

is on the lookout for

This phrase suggests a vigilant watch, distinct from active pursuit.

is resulting from

Refers to a consequence or outcome rather than a search.

is consequent to

This alternative describes something that arises as a result.

FAQs

What does "is after" mean?

The phrase "is after" can mean either 'following in time or sequence' or 'pursuing or seeking something'. The precise meaning depends on the context.

When should I use "is after" instead of "follows"?

Use "is after" when the context involves pursuing or seeking. If you only want to express a temporal relationship, "follows" is more appropriate.

What's a more formal alternative to "is after"?

Depending on the context, more formal alternatives include "is subsequent to" or "is pursuing".

How can I avoid ambiguity when using "is after"?

Provide clear context to indicate whether you mean 'pursuing' or 'following in time'. If ambiguity persists, opt for more specific phrases like "seeking" or "succeeding".