Meaning & use
subsequent
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Meanings
adjectivebefore a noun
Happening or coming after something else in time.
Grammar: Used before a noun: subsequent events. Not used after a verb.
Patterns
- subsequent events
- subsequent years
- subsequent to something
The first meeting was in March, and subsequent meetings were held monthly.
Subsequent research confirmed the original findings.
Her subsequent career was even more successful.
adjectivebefore a noun
Following in order or sequence.
Grammar: Used before a noun to describe items in a series: subsequent chapters.
Patterns
- subsequent chapters
- subsequent pages
- subsequent items
Please read the subsequent chapters for more details.
The subsequent pages contain the answers.
Each subsequent item on the list was more expensive.
Common combinations
- subsequent to
- Subsequent to the meeting, we received a written summary.
- subsequent events
- Subsequent events proved him right.
- subsequent years
- In subsequent years, the company grew rapidly.
- subsequent to
- Subsequent to his resignation, a new manager was appointed.
Synonyms and how they differ
- following
- More common in everyday speech; 'subsequent' is more formal and often used in writing.
- later
- Simpler and more general; 'subsequent' emphasizes the order of events.
- ensuing
- Formal and often used for events that happen as a result; 'subsequent' is neutral about cause.
Opposites
Word family
- subsequently adverb
- Afterwards; later.
Commonly confused: subsequent or consequent?
subsequent vs consequent
Consequent means happening as a result of something; subsequent simply means happening after.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'subsequent' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Subsequent' is an adjective used before a noun, so 'the subsequent meeting' is correct. It cannot be used after 'was' or with 'very'.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “subsequent”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.