A1adverb 1K

Then

🇬🇧 UK /["/ðen/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ðen/"]/

Meaning of Then

used to refer to a particular time in the past or future

In simple words: At that time; next in order.

Then in a sentence

• I finished my homework, and then I went outside to play.
• First, we will eat dinner, and then we can watch a movie.
• If it rains tomorrow, then we will stay indoors.
• You should study every day; then, you will pass the exam.
• I woke up, brushed my teeth, and then took a shower.

How to use Then

Used to indicate a time in the past or future. Often used in storytelling. Avoid using in formal writing; instead, use 'subsequently' or 'afterward'.

Grammar pattern

then + independent clause

Memory hint

Sounds like 'ten' — imagine making a plan that happens ten minutes later.

Related words

Collocations with Then

• then and there
• back then
• if... then
• then again
• more then

Synonyms for Then

• next
• afterward
• subsequently
• later
• thereafter

Opposites of Then

• before
• previously

Common mistakes with Then

• Confused with 'than' when comparing things.
• Used incorrectly at the beginning of a sentence without a connecting clause.
• Mixing 'then' with 'than' in conversations.

Frequently asked questions about Then

What does Then mean?

At that time; next in order.

What is the definition of Then?

used to refer to a particular time in the past or future

How do you use Then in a sentence?

I finished my homework, and then I went outside to play.

Can you give another example of Then?

First, we will eat dinner, and then we can watch a movie.

What are synonyms for Then?

Common alternatives include next, afterward, subsequently, later, thereafter.

What is the opposite of Then?

Opposite meanings include before, previously.

What words go with Then?

It commonly pairs with then and there, back then, if... then, then again, more then.

What are common mistakes when using Then?

Confused with 'than' when comparing things. Used incorrectly at the beginning of a sentence without a connecting clause. Mixing 'then' with 'than' in conversations.

How do you pronounce Then?

US: /["/ðen/"]/, UK: /["/ðen/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Then?

Used to indicate a time in the past or future. Often used in storytelling. Avoid using in formal writing; instead, use 'subsequently' or 'afterward'.

What CEFR level is Then?

"Then" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.