Pronunciation: [wɒz ˈaftə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "was after" can be confusing for English learners. In IPA phonetic transcription, "was" is pronounced /wɑz/, with an "a" sound that is closer to "ah." Meanwhile, "after" is pronounced /ˈæftər/, with an "a" sound that is closer to "eh." When combined, the two words sound like "wahs-ehf-ter." It's important to pay attention to the individual sounds in each word to ensure proper spelling and pronunciation.
The phrase "was after" is an idiomatic expression that implies pursuing or seeking something. This term is commonly used to describe the act of desiring or attempting to acquire or achieve a particular goal or objective.
In a literal sense, "was after" suggests a person's direction towards a specific target or aim. This phrase denotes an individual's intention to acquire or possess something they desire. It signifies a pursuit or quest for a specific outcome or purpose.
Moreover, "was after" can be used metaphorically to describe one's efforts in pursuing non-physical goals. This phrase is frequently employed to convey a sense of determination or aspiration towards a particular task, achievement, or recognition.
The connotation of "was after" often denotes the active involvement, engagement, or active seeking by an individual. It implies that the person is dedicated and committed to reaching a specific objective, indicating a purposeful focus on achieving their desired result.
The phrase "was after" is commonly used in casual conversations, literature, and various forms of communication. It expresses an individual's pursuit of something they desire, whether it be a tangible or intangible goal, demonstrating their devotion, motivation, and perseverance in attaining their desired outcome.
The phrase "was after" does not have a specific etymology of its own since it is a combination of two separate words: "was" and "after". However, we can explore the etymology of each individual word:
1. "Was": The word "was" is the past tense of the verb "to be". Its etymology can be traced back to Old English, where it was spelled "wæs". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "was", which means "to dwell" or "to remain". It has cognates in other Germanic languages such as German "war" and Dutch "was".
2. "After": The word "after" has its roots in Old English and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "af-tero" or "aftero", which means "behind" or "following".
