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then

THEN/ðɛn/

Often confused with than

8 meanings of then

Practice

  1. 1
    next (in time)adverb
    After that, or next in time or in a list.

    He fixed the tap, then left.

    Turn left, then right at the church.

    UsageSay and then. Don't mix it up with than.

    Similarnext, afterward, later

    Note
  2. 2
    in that caseadverb
    In that case, as a result of what was just said.

    If you're tired, then you should go to bed early.

    You don't like fish? What shall I cook, then?

    UsageUse if ... , then ...: If you're tired, then rest. It can also end a question: You're leaving, then?

    Similartherefore

    Note
  3. 3
    at that timeadverb
    At that time, in the past or the future.

    Think of it like a finger placed on one point of a timeline.

    We lived in Ohio back then, before we moved to Florida.

    Come at six. I will be ready then.

    UsageSay back then for a time in the past.

    Similarformerly, previously, before

    Oppositenow

    Note
  4. 4
    noununcountable
    That time, used as a noun after 'before', 'by' or 'until'.

    The store closes at nine, and I hope to be home by then.

    Until then, keep the receipt.

    UsageCommon in since then and from then on.

    Oppositenow

  5. 5
    adjective
    Holding a job or role at that time, as in 'the then mayor'.

    He met his then girlfriend at university.

    The then mayor opened the bridge.

    UsageA hyphen is common before a title followed by a name: then-President Lincoln.

    Similarformer, erstwhile, onetime, previous

    Oppositecurrent, present

    Note
  6. 6
    howeveradverb
    On the other hand, used in 'but then' to balance a remark.

    The tickets were expensive, but then, it was a great show.

    He failed the test, but then he never studied.

    Similarhowever, alternatively

  7. 7
    in additionadverb
    Also, in addition to what was said.

    The house is small. Then there is the noise from the road.

    It's expensive, and then there is the travel to think of.

    UsageSay and then there's ... to add one more point.

    Similarbesides, also, moreover, furthermore, additionally

Less common meaning

  1. 8
    adverbdialectalUK
    In British dialect, added to a denial to make it stronger, as in 'they're not then'.

    "You said the shop was shut." "It's not then!"

    "You ate my cake!" "I did not, then!"

    Note

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of then apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

From Old English þonne, meaning "then" or "at that time." It goes back to older Germanic and Indo-European words for "that."

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 2 facts