posterior
poh-steh-RYOHR
/pos.teˈɾjoɾ/
The word 'posterior' can describe the back or rear position of something.
posterior(Adjective)
back
?physical position
,later
?time
rear
?physical position
,subsequent
?happening after something else
📝 In Action
La puerta posterior del edificio está abierta.
A2The back door of the building is open.
En una fecha posterior decidiremos los detalles.
B1At a later date we will decide the details.
El éxito fue posterior a mucho esfuerzo.
B2Success came after a lot of effort.
💡 Grammar Points
One Form for All
This word is great because it doesn't change its ending for masculine or feminine. You can say 'el lado posterior' or 'la parte posterior' without changing the word!
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't add an 'a'
Mistake: “la parte posteriora”
Correction: la parte posterior
⭐ Usage Tips
Space vs. Time
Remember that 'posterior' works for both physical locations (the back of a car) and points in time (a later meeting).
In a more specific context, 'posterior' refers to the rear or buttocks.
📝 In Action
Ese ejercicio fortalece los músculos del posterior.
B2That exercise strengthens the muscles of the rear.
⭐ Usage Tips
Polite terms
Using 'el posterior' is much more polite and medical than using slang terms for the same body part.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: posterior
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'posterior' to mean 'later'?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'posterior' and 'trasero'?
They are very similar. 'Posterior' sounds slightly more formal and can refer to time (later), while 'trasero' is mostly used for physical locations (the back of something).
Can I use 'posterior' to say 'after'?
Not exactly like the word 'después'. You would usually say 'posterior a' (after [something]) or use the adverb 'posteriormente' (afterwards).