Confused about whether to write afterward or afterwards? You’re not alone. Many English learners and even native speakers wonder which spelling is correct, whether one is more formal, and if the extra “S” changes the meaning. The good news is that both words are correct — but the version you choose depends on regional usage and writing style.
In this clear and simple grammar guide, you’ll learn the difference between afterward vs. afterwards, understand American and British English preferences, see real examples, and discover an easy rule to remember. By the end, you’ll know exactly which version to use in academic writing, professional communication, and everyday English.
Quick Answer
Is “afterward” correct?
Yes. Afterward is correct. It is commonly used in American English.
Example:
We went to dinner, and afterward we watched a movie.
Is “afterwards” correct?
Yes. Afterwards is also correct. It is more common in British English.
Example:
We went to dinner, and afterwards we watched a movie.
One-sentence difference
The only difference between afterward and afterwards is regional usage — American English prefers afterward, while British English prefers afterwards.
The safest version to use
If you are writing for an American audience, use afterward.
If you are writing for a British or international audience, use afterwards — but be consistent.
Now let’s understand the rule behind it.
The Only Rule You Need to Remember
The “S” Rule Explained in Plain English
Here’s the simple rule:
American English often drops the final “S.” British English keeps it.
That’s it.
“Afterward” and “afterwards” mean the same thing. The extra S does not change the meaning.
Both words are adverbs. They describe when something happens — later or at a later time.
Why the Extra “S” Exists
The “S” at the end is part of older English forms. Over time:
- American English simplified many words.
- British English kept some traditional spellings.
So the difference is historical, not grammatical.
This is why both forms are correct — they just belong to different English varieties.
American vs British English (The Real Difference)
Understanding dialect differences makes this much easier.
US Preference
In American English, “afterward” (without S) is more common.
You’ll see it in:
- American books
- U.S. newspapers
- Academic writing in the U.S.
- Business communication in America
Example:
She finished her homework and afterward went outside to play.
Most American style guides recommend this version.
UK Preference
In British English, “afterwards” (with S) is more common.
You’ll see it in:
- British publications
- UK news websites
- British academic writing
- Australian and Canadian writing (often)
Example:
She finished her homework and afterwards went outside to play.
Is One Wrong?
No. Neither is wrong.
The key is consistency. Do not mix American and British spelling in the same piece of writing.
If you start with “afterwards,” don’t switch to “afterward” later in the same article.
Consistency = professional writing.
Side-by-Side Examples (Clear & Practical)
Let’s compare them directly.
| American English | British English |
| We met afterward. | We met afterwards. |
| He apologized afterward. | He apologized afterwards. |
| The meeting ended, and afterward we left. | The meeting ended, and afterwards we left. |
Notice something important?
The meaning does not change at all.
Formal vs Informal Examples
Some people think “afterwards” sounds more formal. That’s not true. Both words work in formal and informal writing.
Formal sentence:
The committee voted, and afterward the decision was announced.
Informal sentence:
We grabbed coffee afterward.
Both are perfectly fine.
Formality depends on your sentence — not the “S.”
Why People Get Confused
This confusion doesn’t happen randomly. There’s a pattern.
Other Words With Optional “S”
Here are similar word pairs:
- toward / towards
- forward / forwards
- backward / backwards
- upward / upwards
- downward / downwards
See the pattern?
American English usually drops the “S.”
British English usually keeps it.
Once you notice this pattern, it becomes much easier.
Pattern Recognition Trick
If you remember one pair, you can remember them all.
Think:
“America moves forward. Britain moves forwards.”
It sounds funny — but it works!
The grammar pattern stays the same across many words.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though the rule is simple, writers still make mistakes. Let’s fix that.
1. Mixing Dialects
Wrong example:
We met afterwards, and afterward we discussed the plan.
This mixes British and American spelling. It looks careless.
Correct it by choosing one style:
We met afterward, and afterward we discussed the plan.
or
We met afterwards, and afterwards we discussed the plan.
2. Overcorrecting in Academic Writing
Some students think:
“Afterwards looks smarter.”
Not true.
In American universities, “afterward” is preferred. Using “afterwards” in a U.S. academic paper may look inconsistent.
Always match your region or style guide.
3. Thinking the Meaning Changes
Some learners think:
- “Afterward” = immediate
- “Afterwards” = much later
This is incorrect.
Both simply mean at a later time.
Quick Memory Trick (So You Never Forget Again)
Here’s a super simple memory trick:
If you write in American English, drop the S.
You can also remember:
US = No extra S
UK = Keeps the S
Short. Easy. Done.
FAQs
Can I use “afterward” in the UK?
Yes, but it’s less common. British readers are more used to “afterwards.” It won’t be wrong — just slightly unusual.
Is “afterwards” more formal?
No. Neither word is more formal. Both are neutral and acceptable in formal writing, emails, essays, and professional documents.
Formality depends on your tone and sentence structure — not the spelling variation.
Which should I use in academic writing?
It depends on your institution or audience:
- Writing for a U.S. university → use afterward
- Writing for a UK university → use afterwards
- Writing for an international audience → choose one and stay consistent
If unsure, check your style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) and follow their regional preference.
Final Summary: Afterward vs. Afterwards
Let’s recap everything clearly.
- Both afterward and afterwards are correct.
- They have the same meaning: at a later time.
- American English prefers afterward.
- British English prefers afterwards.
- The extra “S” does not change meaning.
- The most important rule is consistency.
Now you don’t just know the difference — you understand the pattern behind it.
And once you see the pattern, you’ll never get confused again.
That’s real grammar confidence.
