after all

Definitions

1. 1

   anyway, in any case

   anyway, in any case; indicates a statement is true regardless of other considerations; used to reinforce or explain a point.

   • After all, they never come home for Christmas.
   • Of course he won't give you credit. After all, his first and last concern is his company's profit margin.
   • “What a charming amusement for young people this is, Mr. Darcy! There is nothing like dancing after all.—I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished societies.”
2. 2

   in the end, however

   in the end, however; used in referring to something that was believed to be the case, but is not; or to an outcome that is not what was expected or predicted.

   • They won't be coming home for Christmas after all.
   • Then the idea returned to her that, after all, her son might not be innocent in the Ellen matter—and this was so interesting that she felt bound to get as near the truth as she could.
3. 3

   Introduces information that supports the preceding statement.

   • Of course he's coming to the party. After all, he did promise.

The neighborhood