I think then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I think then" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward without context.
It could be used when transitioning to a conclusion or a thought process after considering something. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I think then that we should proceed with caution."

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I think then".

The New York Times

I think then it's hard".

The New York Times - Sports

I think then I'd survive".

The New York Times - Magazine

"I think then they felt they weren't necessary," Eckwood replied.

The New York Times - Sports

I think then you've got two strong foundations for sanity".

The Guardian

You know what I think then?" Juliet shook her head.

The New Yorker

"I think then I finally overcame my insecurity," he said.

The New York Times - Food

I think then a tractor, and a rope.

The Guardian - Travel

I think then it would have been harder for me to focus for my own match".

Independent

I think then we'd learn everything we need to know about Texas A&M's Luke Joeckel.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I worked Isle of Wight and we did one really long shift the day it opened to the public - 13 hours I think - then we had one short shift to do when the music was on.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I think then", ensure the "then" logically connects to the preceding thought, indicating a sequence or consequence. Overuse can make writing sound stilted, so consider alternatives for smoother transitions.

Common error

Avoid confusing "then" (referring to time or consequence) with "than" (used for comparisons). For example, saying "I think then it's better" is correct for a sequence, but "I think than it's better" is grammatically incorrect; use "I think it's better than that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I think then" primarily functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking a preceding thought with a subsequent conclusion or action. It serves to indicate a temporal or logical sequence. Ludwig provides examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Academia

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I think then" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking a prior thought to a subsequent conclusion. While grammatically acceptable, it can sound slightly formal or even stilted in modern English. Ludwig AI suggests that depending on the specific intent, there might be better and more elegant alternatives, but the high frequency of usage in news, academic, and scientific contexts makes it a valid phrase for expressing reasoned judgment. The phrase is most often found in "News & Media", "Science" and "Academia".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I then think

Inverts the order of "think" and "then", slightly altering the emphasis but maintaining the core meaning.

I conclude then

Uses the verb conclude to convey reaching the end of a thought process.

I think consequently

Replaces "then" with a more formal adverb indicating a logical result.

It seems to me then

Adds a degree of subjectivity and consideration.

I feel then

Substitutes "think" with "feel", suggesting an emotional rather than intellectual conclusion.

My understanding is then

Emphasizes the personal interpretation leading to a conclusion.

I think therefore

Employs "therefore" for a stronger, more logical connection between thoughts.

I guess then

Replaces "think" with "guess", indicating a less certain conclusion.

I believe then

Uses "believe" instead of "think", suggesting a stronger conviction.

I imagine then

Employs "imagine" instead of "think", suggesting a speculative conclusion.

FAQs

How can I use "I think then" in a sentence?

Use "I think then" to indicate a conclusion or next step in your reasoning. For instance: "If we consider all the facts, "I think then" we should proceed cautiously."

What's a more formal alternative to "I think then"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "I conclude then" or "I think consequently" to express the logical progression of your thoughts.

Is "I think then" grammatically correct?

While not always the most elegant phrasing, ""I think then"" is generally grammatically acceptable when used to link a thought with its consequence or a subsequent point. However, according to Ludwig AI, consider whether there are clearer alternatives.

What's the difference between "I think then" and "I thought then"?

"I think then" expresses a present thought process and conclusion, while "I thought then" refers to a past thought process and conclusion. The tense indicates when the thinking occurred.