How to Say “Right After” in Spanish

When it comes to expressing the concept of “right after” in Spanish, there are several ways to convey this idea. The choice of words may vary depending on the context, formality level, and regional variations. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to say “right after” in Spanish, providing you with various tips and examples to enhance your understanding.

Formal Ways to Say “Right After”

If you want to express “right after” in a formal setting or convey a sense of professionalism, you can use the following phrases:

1. Inmediatamente después – This is the most common formal way to say “right after” in Spanish. It emphasizes the immediate sequence of events. For example:
   

   El gerente entró inmediatamente después de la reunión para discutir los resultados.

   English: The manager entered right after the meeting to discuss the results.

2. Justo después – This phrase is slightly less formal than “inmediatamente después” but still widely accepted in formal contexts. It emphasizes the exactness of the sequence of events. For example:
   

   El informe fue entregado justo después de la fecha límite establecida.

   English: The report was submitted right after the established deadline.

3. Seguido de – This expression is often used in formal contexts when referring to events happening consecutively. For example:
   

   El discurso del presidente fue seguido del aplauso de los asistentes.

   English: The president’s speech was followed by the applause of the attendees.

Informal Ways to Say “Right After”

In more informal situations, you can opt for a less rigid approach when expressing “right after.” Here are a few options commonly used in informal settings:

1. Enseguida – This is a versatile and widely used expression in informal contexts. It conveys the idea of “right away” or “immediately after.” For example:
   

   Voy a ir al supermercado y luego te veo enseguida.

   English: I’m going to the supermarket and then I’ll see you right after.

2. En un santiamén – This colloquial expression is used to describe something that happens very quickly, conveying the sense of “in a jiffy” or “in a flash.” For example:
   

   Prepararé la cena en un santiamén antes de que llegues a casa.

   English: I’ll prepare dinner in a flash before you arrive home.

3. Al toque – This popular phrase in some Latin American regions indicates something that occurs immediately or without delay. For example:
   

   Voy a responder tu mensaje al toque.

   English: I’ll respond to your message right away.

Regional Variations

As with any language, regional variations exist in Spanish. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood in many Spanish-speaking regions, it’s worth noting that certain regions may have their unique expressions to convey “right after.” Here are a few regional variations:

1. Acto seguido – Commonly used in Spain, it means “immediately afterward” or “straightaway.” For example:
   

   El equipo ganó el partido, acto seguido, salieron a celebrar.

   English: The team won the match, immediately afterward they went out to celebrate.

2. Luego luego – This expression is characteristic of Mexican Spanish, meaning “right away” or “immediately.” For example:
   

   Olvidé mi cartera y luego luego volví a buscarla.

   English: I forgot my wallet, and right away I went back to get it.

Remember, these regional variations might not be universally understood, so it’s important to consider the audience and context when using them.

In Summary

Expressing “right after” in Spanish involves a range of phrases suitable for different formality levels and settings. Here’s a summary of the phrases we covered:

1. Inmediatamente después – Formal and common, emphasizes immediate sequence.
2. Justo después – Formal, emphasizes exactness of the sequence.
3. Seguido de – Formal, used for consecutive events.
4. Enseguida – Informal, versatile, meaning “right away” or “immediately after.”
5. En un santiamén – Informal, describes something that happens quickly.
6. Al toque – Informal, used in certain Latin American regions to indicate no delay.
7. Acto seguido – Regional variation (common in Spain), meaning “immediately afterward.”
8. Luego luego – Regional variation (common in Mexico), meaning “right away.”

By familiarizing yourself with these expressions and considering the formality level and regional context, you’ll be able to more confidently express “right after” in Spanish.