The phrase “after you!” is a polite way to suggest that the other person can go ahead or proceed before you. It’s like saying “You go first!” or “Please go ahead”.
Let’s look at this phrase used in sentences:
Example 1:
“At the entrance to the restaurant, John held the door open and said to his date, “After you!“” This implies that John is letting his date enter before him.
Example 2:
“In the busy supermarket aisle, Sara moved her shopping cart to the side and said to the lady beside her, “After you!“” This suggests that Sara is allowing the lady to pass before her.
Now let’s see it used in conversation:
Example 3:
Emily: “I’m not sure who should present their project first.”
Jacob: “After you! I’d like to see your ideas before I share mine.”
Example 4:
Lucy: “There’s only one piece of cake left!”
Mark: “After you! I know how much you love chocolate cake.”
So, when you say “after you!“, you’re showing politeness and respect by letting the other person go ahead or proceed before you.
