Meaning & use

later

adverb·Everyday

At a time after the present moment or after a particular event already mentioned.

See it in a sentence

We can finish this conversation later, once the meeting has ended.

He arrived at the party an hour later than everyone else.

A note on using this word

Later functions as an adverb of time and can also act as an adjective, as in 'a later train.'

Words with a similar meaning

afterwardsubsequently

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

earlier

Another way to use it

2. adjective

Coming after another in time or order; more recent.

The later chapters of the book reveal the narrator's true identity.

Make it your own

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