To then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To then" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a sequence of actions or events, often implying a transition to the next step. Example: "We will analyze the data, and to then make informed decisions based on our findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To then introduce Agüero when Swansea wearied bordered on cruelty.

The New York Times - Sports

To then introduce Ag? when Swansea wearied bordered on cruelty.

The New York Times

Where to, then?

The New Yorker

only to then encounter the membership issue.

The New York Times - Sports

He dated it back to then.

The New Yorker

'I won't need to then.

The New York Times - Books

It is Ms. Shigo's ticket to then.

The New York Times

"Up to then it's hard work".

The New York Times

Not much to live up to then.

The Guardian - Books

Up to then she had struggled.

The New York Times - Books

She appears to then be stoned to death.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "To then" to clearly indicate the chronological order of actions or events, especially when emphasizing the purpose of the initial action. For clarity, ensure the context makes the sequence logical and understandable.

Common error

Avoid using "To then" if the preceding action or event isn't explicitly stated or easily inferred. This can lead to confusion. Always ensure a clear connection between the initial action and the subsequent one introduced by "to then".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "To then" functions as an adverbial connector. It links two actions or events in a sequence, often indicating that the second action is performed as a result of, or in furtherance of, the first. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "To then" is a versatile connector that serves to link sequential actions, often implying purpose or intent. As Ludwig AI indicates, its usage is grammatically correct and well-supported by examples across various domains. While it appears most frequently in news, media, and scientific writing, maintaining a neutral to formal tone, it's important to ensure that its placement provides a clear and logical connection between the actions or events being described. Common errors involve using "to then" without a clear antecedent, potentially causing confusion. Alternatives such as "subsequently" or "thereafter" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In order to then

Adds a formal tone and emphasizes purpose.

So as to then

Similar to 'in order to then', highlighting intention.

Subsequently

Focuses solely on the sequential aspect.

Thereafter

Emphasizes time passing after the initial event.

Following that

Highlights immediate succession.

Afterward

A more concise way to indicate a sequence of events.

Consequently

Emphasizes the result of a previous action.

As a result

Similar to 'consequently', indicating causation.

And after that

Breaks down the sequence into simpler terms.

Following this

Highlights the next step in a process.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "To then" in a sentence?

"To then" is best used to clearly indicate the next step or consequence following an initial action. For example, "Analyze the data, "and to then" make informed decisions." Ensure the connection between the actions is logical and evident.

What are some alternatives to using "To then" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "subsequently", "thereafter", "following that", or "as a result". Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance in terms of sequence and causality.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "To then"?

While grammatically permissible, starting a sentence with "To then" can sound somewhat formal or stilted. It's generally better to use it within a sentence to connect two related actions or ideas smoothly. Starting a sentence with "Subsequently" might be more common.

What's the difference between using "To then" and "Then"?

"Then" simply indicates a sequence in time. "To then" implies not only sequence, but also purpose or intent in carrying out the subsequent action. For instance, "He studied diligently, "to then" pass the exam" suggests his studying was aimed at passing the exam, which has a slightly different nuance from "He studied diligently, then passed the exam."