Cool MateAfter vs Following
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| After | Following | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Later in time than something else. | To come after something or someone. |
| CEFR level | A1 | A2 |
| Part of speech | preposition | adjective |
| Usage notes | Used to indicate time. Common in both spoken and written English. Avoid using in very formal contexts without a clear time reference. | Use 'following' to indicate something that comes next in time or order. It's appropriate in various contexts, including writing and conversation, but avoid using it in overly casual settings when referring to people. |
Frequently asked questions: After vs Following
What's the difference between "After" and "Following"?
"After" means: Later in time than something else. "Following" means: To come after something or someone.
When should I use "After" and "Following"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "After" and "Following" the same CEFR level?
"After" is at A1, "Following" is at A2 on the CEFR scale.