Is there a comma after the word thereafter?

Whether you need a comma after "thereafter" depends on the context and the grammatical structure of the sentence. Here's a breakdown:

No comma needed:

* When "thereafter" acts as an adverb: "She graduated and thereafter began her career."

* When "thereafter" is part of a prepositional phrase: "She lived in London for five years and thereafter moved to Paris."

Comma needed:

* When "thereafter" introduces a dependent clause: "He ate his lunch, and thereafter, he went for a walk."

* When "thereafter" introduces a contrasting or additional thought: "The company was successful, thereafter, it faced a downturn."

Example:

* Incorrect: "The meeting was adjourned, thereafter the committee will reconvene."

* Correct: "The meeting was adjourned, and thereafter, the committee will reconvene."

Key takeaway: Use a comma if "thereafter" introduces a new thought or clause. Otherwise, it's usually not needed.