Used when discussing actions taken or events happening after the main event or situation. We installed the security system after the fact, which we regretted not doing sooner.
Pro Tip 2/3
No Prevention
Emphasizes that it's not about preventing, but responding to something that has already happened. The apology came after the fact, failing to prevent the upset.
Pro Tip 3/3
Hindsight Insight
Implies learning or realizing something afterwards, often with a sense of missed opportunity. She recognized the signs of the illness only after the fact.