Meaning
Used to justify or explain something that was just said, confirming the truth despite doubts.
Primary Function
Justification / reminder marker
Communicative Purpose
Provides a reason that supports the previous statement, often as a concluding remark.
Pattern
after all
Core Structure
after all
Função primária
Justification / reminder marker
Propósito comunicativo
Provides a reason that supports the previous statement, often as a concluding remark.
Situações de gatilho
Everyday reasoning, giving excuses, reminding someone of a fact.
Contextos
All contexts; slightly informal.
Padrão
after all
Estrutura central
after all
Slots de substituição
None - the expression is a fixed phrase with no variable slots
Colocados típicos
- he should go
- he’s the expert
Substituições comuns
- all things considered
- let's face it
Erros comuns
Using 'after all' to mean 'finally' temporally
Similar / contraste
in the end, at the end of the day
Interferências
Learners might confuse with 'after' as temporal reference
Família do chunk
- justification markers
Nuance
Sounds slightly defensive or explanatory; often appeals to common sense
Efeito pragmático
Softens a decision, making it seem reasonable
Dica de memória
Don’t be too harsh on him. After all, he’s only a child
Nota
Used to confirm or justify a statement, often with an explanatory or defensive tone. Common in casual and professional contexts to reinforce a point.
Upgrade path
because → after all → at the end of the day
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