- A very informal, abbreviated version of See you later or Catch you later.
Explanation
Origin
- Casual shortening of longer farewell phrases. Became common in informal American English.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
- See the comprehensive list under expressions 0078-0090 and the general 'Alternatives for Farewells' section below 0090.
Situational Appropriateness
- Very informal.
- Use primarily with friends, peers, or close acquaintances in relaxed settings.
- Avoid in professional or formal contexts. Can sound overly casual or even dismissive if used inappropriately.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Low risk. Clearly means goodbye. The main potential issue is using it in a situation where more formality is expected.
Examples
- Alright, I gotta bounce. Later.
- Later, dude.
- See ya tomorrow. Yep, later.
Dialogue
Mike: I'm heading out to grab some lunch.
Dave: Cool. Bring me back something?
Mike: Maybe! Later.
Dave: Later.
Social Media Examples
- Signing off a quick text: ok gotta go later
- Ending a stream or video: Alright chat, that's it for tonight. Later!
Response Patterns
- Later.
- See ya.
- Yep, later.
- Alright.
- Peace. (Equally informal)
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- None. Often accompanied by a nod, maybe a fist bump or casual wave.
Conversation Starter
- No. Ends a conversation.
Intonation
- Very casual, often quick, and sometimes almost mumbled.
- Falling intonation. Later.
Generation Differences
- Very common, particularly among males and younger generations (Teens, Millennials, Gen Z), but widely understood by Gen X as well. May sound slightly abrupt to older generations.
Regional Variations
- Extremely common in American English.
- Used and understood in other regions but might be perceived as more distinctly American.