What does subsequently mean?
Subsequently means after something else has happened, either in time or in a sequence of events. It may also mean “as a result,” although this implication is stronger in formal writing and in phrases such as “the policy was subsequently withdrawn.” The word is especially useful when the order of events needs to be made explicit, as in “The report was published the following year and subsequently became the subject of an official inquiry.” Unlike a simple time expression such as “later,” “subsequently” can subtly suggest a later stage in a developing sequence or a consequence of an earlier action. It is common in journalism, academic prose, legal contexts, reports, and formal correspondence, though it remains perfectly understandable in ordinary conversation. British and American speakers use it equally, with little or no regional difference.
adverbAfter a particular point in time or sequence; later or afterward. It may also indicate that something happens as a consequence of an earlier event.
- At a later time or after the event or stage being mentioned.
- As a result of something already stated, especially when describing a consequence that becomes apparent later.
"The initial delay was subsequently explained by a technical fault."
"The building was later converted into a museum and subsequently reopened to the public."
"The policy was introduced without consultation and subsequently proved highly controversial."
Subsequently literally means “following”: its Latin root describes what comes after another event in time or sequence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does subsequently come from?
The word comes through Medieval Latin from Latin subsequentus, meaning “following” or “next.” That adjective was formed from sub-, meaning “under” or “after,” and sequens, the present participle of sequi, meaning “to follow.” The modern adverb form reflects the Latin stem combined with the English adverbial ending -ly.
Related word forms
How subsequently is actually used
The word is neutral in tone but is somewhat more formal than “later” or “afterwards.” It is especially common in news, academic, legal, and institutional writing. Its use can also imply that the relationship between two events was understood or revealed later.
Easily confused with subsequently
Subsequently means later in time or sequence, whereas consequently means as a result.
Subsequently refers to something occurring later, whereas consistent means agreeing with a standard or showing no contradiction.