A1adverb1K

Later

UK /["/ˈleɪtə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈleɪtər/"]/

Definition

at a time in the future; after the time you are talking about

In simple words: After a time or at a future time.

Examples

  • I will call you later when I finish my work.
  • She said she would arrive later than expected.
  • Let's discuss this topic later during the meeting.
  • He promised to send the report later this afternoon.
  • I was busy at that moment, but I'll see you later.

Usage notes

Used in both spoken and written English to indicate a time in the future. It is appropriate for casual conversations but can also be used in more formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'later' as 'lay-ter' - like how you lay something down to do it later.

Collocations

  • see you later
  • later than expected
  • talk about it later

Synonyms

  • afterwards
  • subsequently
  • after

Antonyms

  • sooner
  • earlier

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'latter' - 'later' refers to time, while 'latter' refers to the second of two items.
  • Misused in phrases where 'after' would be more appropriate.
  • Misspelled as 'latter' when referring to time.