be after something Definition

after
prep

1. Coming later in time than something.
2. Following someone or something in position; behind.
3. Next to and following something in importance, order, arrangement, etc.
4. Because of something; considering.

Example: You can't expect to be promoted after that mistake
5. In spite of something.

Example: He's still no better after all that medicine
6. About someone or something.

Example: ask after her
7. In pursuit of someone or something.

Example: run after him
8. Said of a painting or other work of art: in the style or manner of (someone else).
9. By or with the same name as someone or something; with a name derived from that of (someone else).

Example: called her Mary after her aunt
(N Amer, especially US)
10. Past (an hour).

Example: It's twenty after six

adverb

1. Later in time.

Thesaurus: subsequently, afterwards, thereafter, later, next, post.
2. Behind in place.

Thesaurus: next, below, behind.

conj

1. After the time when.

adj

1. Later; following.

Example: in after years
2. naut.
Further towards the stern of a ship. See also aft.
Example: the after deck

Idiom: after all

In spite of all that has happened or has been said or done.

Contrary to what is or was expected.
Example: The shop was closed after all

Idiom: after one's own heart

Of exactly the kind one likes.

Idiom: after you

Please go before me.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon æfter.

Phrasal Verb: be after someone or something

To be pursuing or chasing (a person or animal).