Using “after” correctly in English can be tricky, even for advanced learners. Whether you’re writing an email, speaking in a business meeting, or chatting with friends, knowing how to use “after” properly is essential. In this post, we’ll explore common mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Incorrect Word Order in Sentences
Incorrect: After ate lunch, I went back to work.
Correct: After eating lunch, I went back to work.
Why? “After” is a preposition that must be followed by a noun or gerund (verb + ing). The mistake here is using the past tense verb “ate” instead of the gerund “eating.”
2. Confusing “After” and “Afterward(s)”
Incorrect: We had dinner, and after we watched a movie.
Correct: We had dinner, and afterward, we watched a movie.
Why? “After” is a preposition that requires a noun or a verb in the gerund form, while “afterward” (or “afterwards”) is an adverb and does not require an object.
3. Incorrect Use of “After” in Time Expressions
Incorrect: I’ll call you after two days.
Correct: I’ll call you in two days.
Why? “After” is used to show sequence, not duration. When talking about time, “in” is used to indicate the time between now and the event.
4. Overusing “After That”
Incorrect: She finished her work. After that she left the office.
Correct: She finished her work and then left the office.
Why? “After that” is not wrong, but using “then” sounds more natural and concise in casual speech and writing.
5. Incorrect Use of “After” in Conditional Sentences
Incorrect: If you will call me after you arrive, I will pick you up.
Correct: If you call me after you arrive, I will pick you up.
Why? In conditional sentences, we don’t use “will” in the “if” clause. The simple present is used instead.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the correct usage of “after” will improve your fluency and clarity in English. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you sound more natural in both writing and speech.
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