1
Core relationship
Following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
Example
Building codes were revised in the wake of the earthquake.
in the wake of
/ɪn ðə weɪk əv/ · in thuh WAYK uvaftermath phrase
Following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
Use in the wake of to express this relationship precisely: following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
What in the wake of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
In the wake of the discovery, several museums re-examined similar objects.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Trade declined in the wake of prolonged conflict.
Use in the wake of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Building codes were revised in the wake of the earthquake.
In the wake of the discovery, several museums re-examined similar objects.
Trade declined in the wake of prolonged conflict.
Precision Matters
In the wake of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in the wake of
vs.Means following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
in response to
Means as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
in the wake of
vs.Means following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
because of
Means as a result of; introduces a noun phrase naming a cause.
in the wake of
vs.Means following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
due to
Means caused by or attributable to a stated factor.
in the wake of
vs.Means following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
from then on
Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
Test in the wake of in Context
The change followed the crisis and is presented as part of its aftermath.
1
Several banks tightened lending standards ___ the financial crisis.