Bienvenue! If you are looking to expand your French vocabulary and learn how to say “after” in different contexts, you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways to express “after” in French, providing you with various tips and examples along the way. So, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to convey this common concept in the beautiful French language.
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Formal Expressions for “After”
When it comes to formal situations, such as business meetings, official correspondence, or academic discussions, it is important to use the appropriate level of language. Here are some formal expressions you can use to convey the meaning of “after” in French:
1. Après
“Après” is the most common and versatile translation for “after” in formal French. It can be used in various contexts, both in terms of time and sequence. Let’s take a look at a few examples to illustrate its usage:
Nous nous retrouverons dans la salle de réunion après le déjeuner. (We will meet in the conference room after lunch.)
L’examen aura lieu après les vacances d’été. (The exam will take place after the summer holidays.)
2. À la suite de
Another formal way to express “after” in French is by using the phrase “à la suite de”. However, it is more commonly used in written communication rather than in everyday spoken language. Take a look at the examples below:
À la suite de votre demande, nous vous enverrons un devis détaillé. (After your request, we will send you a detailed quote.)
La conférence a été annulée à la suite des circonstances imprévues. (The conference was canceled after the unforeseen circumstances.)
Informal Ways to Say “After”
Now, let’s explore some informal ways of expressing “after” that are commonly used in everyday conversations among friends, family, or colleagues:
1. Après
Yes, you read it right! The same word used in the formal context, “après,” is also widely used in informal situations. Although it may seem contradictory, the usage and intonation make all the difference. Here are a few examples:
On se retrouve à la plage, après le travail? (Shall we meet at the beach after work?)
Tu viendras me chercher après l’école, c’est ça? (You’ll pick me up after school, right?)
2. Après que
In spoken language, it is common to use “après que” followed by a verb to express “after” in a relaxed and informal way. However, keep in mind that in formal writing, “après que” must be followed by a subjunctive verb. Here are a couple of examples:
J’irai au cinéma après que j’aurai terminé mes devoirs. (I will go to the movies after I finish my homework.)
Tu pourras jouer aux jeux vidéo après qu’il sera parti. (You can play video games after he leaves.)
Regional Variations
While French is widely spoken throughout France and many Francophone countries, there may be some slight regional variations in vocabulary usage. However, when it comes to expressing “after,” the formal and informal ways mentioned above are widely understood and used across regions. Thus, there are no significant changes in this context that you need to be concerned about.
Conclusion
Félicitations! You have now mastered the different ways to say “after” in French across various contexts. From formal expressions such as “après” and “à la suite de” to informal usage like “après” and “après que,” you are equipped to converse and write confidently in both settings. Whether you’re discussing plans, describing sequences, or talking about events, this guide has provided you with the necessary tools for effective communication in French.
Remember to practice and incorporate these phrases into your conversations to strengthen your language skills. Joyeux apprentissage! (Happy learning!)
