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午後
ごご
gogo
Refers to the period from 12:00 PM until the evening. It is the direct antonym of 午前 (gozen - morning/AM). In a formal or written context, it is used to specify the time of day, similar to "P.M." in English.
While 午後 covers the entire span from noon onwards, speakers often use more specific terms for certain parts of this period. For example, 昼過ぎ (hirusugi) specifically refers to "just after noon" (e.g., 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM), and 夕方 (yūgata) refers to "evening" or "late afternoon" when the sun begins to set.
In daily conversation, 午後 is a neutral term used across all registers, from casual speech to formal business settings. When used as a time marker in schedules or appointments, it clearly delineates the second half of the day.
Meanings
The period of time from noon until evening or night.
午後に会う。
Meet in the afternoon.