How to Say “After” in Italian: A Comprehensive Guide

When learning a new language like Italian, it’s essential to grasp the various ways to express common words. In this guide, we will explore how to say “after” in Italian, both formally and informally, providing you with useful tips and examples along the way. Let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Say “After” in Italian

When speaking formally or in professional settings, it’s important to use the appropriate vocabulary and grammar. Here are a few formal ways to express “after” in Italian:

1. Dopo: This is the most common and versatile word for “after” in Italian. It can be used in various contexts and is suitable for both time and hierarchy. For example:
   

   “Verrò dopo la riunione” (I will come after the meeting)
   “La decisione viene presa dopo un’attenta valutazione” (The decision is made after careful consideration)

2. In seguito: This can be used specifically to indicate a subsequent event or action. It is commonly used in written and formal language:
   

   “In seguito alla mia richiesta, mi è stato concesso un permesso” (After my request, I was granted permission)

3. Succedente: Although less common, “succedente” can be employed to indicate something that follows or comes after another event or action. This word is typically used in more formal contexts:
   

   “Il capitolo succedente approfondisce ulteriormente l’argomento” (The following chapter further explores the topic)

Informal Ways to Say “After” in Italian

When talking with friends, family, or in informal settings, Italians often use more relaxed and colloquial expressions. Here are some common informal ways to say “after” in Italian:

1. Dopodiché: This word is an informal variation of “dopo” and is frequently used in spoken language. It implies a sense of immediacy and is often followed by an action:
   

   “Andiamo a cena e dopodiché possiamo vedere un film” (Let’s go for dinner, and after that, we can watch a movie)

2. Dopodomani: Literally meaning “after tomorrow,” this word is a popular colloquial expression for talking about events that will happen in two days’ time:
   

   “Ci vediamo dopodomani per il pranzo” (Let’s meet for lunch the day after tomorrow)

Regional Variations

While Italian is primarily a standardized language, it’s worth mentioning that regional variations can influence the way “after” is expressed. However, these variations are not significant and generally understand across the country. Here are a couple of regional variations:

1. In certain regions, especially northern Italy, you might hear the word “dop” used instead of “dopo” in informal conversations. It is a shortened form commonly used in everyday speech: “Vengo dop” (I’ll come after)

Remember that these regional variations are not essential to master the Italian language, but they may add depth and understanding when conversing with locals in specific areas.

Tips and Tricks for Using “After” in Italian

1. Pay attention to context: The word used for “after” in Italian can vary depending on the context. It’s essential to consider the meaning and purpose of the sentence to choose the appropriate term.
2. Practice time expressions: Understanding how to express time correctly is crucial in Italian, as it often affects the choice of words for “after.” Dedicate some time to learning common time expressions and how they relate to the concept of “after.”
3. Don’t be afraid to ask: If you’re unsure about the correct usage of “after” in a particular situation, don’t hesitate to ask a native speaker. Italians are generally helpful and will gladly assist you in improving your language skills.

Now that you have learned various ways to say “after” in Italian, practice incorporating these expressions into your conversations and written texts. Remember, exposure and practice are key to mastering any language. Buona fortuna!