Meaning
Refers to a time in the future, subsequent to now.
Cultural Background
The 'depois' culture: Brazilians are often flexible with time. Saying 'depois' might mean in 5 minutes or next week. In Portugal, 'depois' is used frequently in spatial directions, often paired with 'logo' (logo depois) to mean 'immediately after'. In Luanda, 'depois' is often used to sequence storytelling in a very rhythmic way during informal gatherings.
The 'De' Rule
Always add 'de' if you name the event. 'Depois da festa', not 'Depois festa'.
Don't over-formalize
Avoid 'posteriormente' in casual conversation; it sounds like a robot.
Meaning
Refers to a time in the future, subsequent to now.
The 'De' Rule
Always add 'de' if you name the event. 'Depois da festa', not 'Depois festa'.
Don't over-formalize
Avoid 'posteriormente' in casual conversation; it sounds like a robot.
The Brazilian 'Depois'
If a Brazilian says 'a gente se vê depois' without a specific time, don't wait by the phone!
Test Yourself
Choose the correct form to complete the sentence.
Eu vou ao médico ______ do trabalho.
Wait, actually 'depois' + 'do' (de + o) is the correct logic. So 'depois' is the base word.
Fill in the blank with the Portuguese word for 'later'.
Não posso agora. Vamos falar ______?
'Depois' acts as an adverb here meaning 'later'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Até depois!
'Até depois' is a common way to say 'See you later'.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesEu vou ao médico ______ do trabalho.
Wait, actually 'depois' + 'do' (de + o) is the correct logic. So 'depois' is the base word.
Não posso agora. Vamos falar ______?
'Depois' acts as an adverb here meaning 'later'.
Até depois!
'Até depois' is a common way to say 'See you later'.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsOnly in a sequence (e.g., the second car in a line). For a static object behind another, use 'atrás'.
No, it is neutral. It's safe to use everywhere.
'Após' is more formal and is almost always followed by a noun. 'Depois' can stand alone.
Use the fixed phrase 'depois de amanhã'.
No, it is an adverb and remains 'depois' regardless of the subject.
Yes, especially when telling a story: 'Depois, nós fomos à praia.'
Related Phrases
Depois de amanhã
specialized formThe day after tomorrow
Logo depois
builds onImmediately after
Antes
contrastBefore
Atrás
similarBehind / Ago
