Translation guide
Expresses that something happens after some time has passed. Japanese uses several time adverbs and phrases, with nuances of formality, duration, and context.
Indicate that an event occurs following a period of time, without specifying exactly how long.
Neutral and common. Used in both spoken and written Japanese. Implies a relatively short, indefinite period.
After a while, the rain stopped.
After a while, he came back.
Similar to しばらくして, but often used when describing a natural consequence or habitual occurrence.
After a while, the pain disappeared.
Emphasizes the passage of time. Often used in narratives.
After a while, she spoke.
Literary or formal. Means 'before long' or 'eventually'. Often used in written Japanese.
After a while, dawn broke.
Emphasize that a considerable amount of time has passed.
Indicate that only a brief period has passed.
Both mean 'after a while', but しばらくすると is often used for habitual or natural consequences, while しばらくして is more neutral and simply sequential.
After a while, I always get sleepy.
After a while, he left.
Avoid directly translating 'after a while' as あとでしばらく or similar. Use the set phrases above.
まもなく電車が参ります。
The train will arrive shortly.