posterior
“posterior” means “back” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
back, later
Also: rear, subsequent
📝 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.
rear
Also: backside
📝 In Action
Ese ejercicio fortalece los músculos del posterior.
B2That exercise strengthens the muscles of the rear.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: posterior
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'posterior' to mean 'later'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'posterior', which literally means 'further back' or 'later'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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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).