Until then

USAGE SUMMARY

"Until then" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate that something will happen at a later time and is associated with more formal conversations and writing. For example: We will discuss the details of the project in our next meeting. Until then, please work on the outline.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Until then, what?

The New York Times - Books

Until then, you're dirty.

The New York Times

Until then... Q.

The New York Times

Until then, silence.

The New York Times - Magazine

Until then, we haven't".

Independent

Until then, we're stuck.

The New York Times

Until then, enjoy this.

The New York Times

Until then, "I.O.U".

The New York Times

Until then, we sail on.

The New York Times

Until then, there's guesswork involved.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So...until then, then.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Until then" to clearly mark a timeframe. Ensure the subsequent action or state is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid placing a comma directly before "then" in the phrase. It should be "Until then," not "Until, then."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Until then" functions as a temporal adjunct, specifying a time period before a certain event or action occurs. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a standard and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Until then" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that acts as a temporal marker, as indicated by Ludwig AI. It's used to designate an interim period before a specified event or time. Commonly found in News & Media, its register is generally neutral, making it appropriate for diverse contexts. For more formal alternatives, consider phrases like "in the meantime", but "till then" works well in casual conversations. Remember to correctly punctuate the phrase as "Until then,". Its high frequency and clear function establish "Until then" as a reliable and versatile tool in English communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Till then

A shorter, more casual synonym for "Until then".

In the meantime

Focuses on the intervening period with a sense of active waiting or preparation.

For the time being

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the current situation before the anticipated event.

Pending that time

A more formal way to indicate the period of waiting for a specific event.

Prior to that

Formally indicates an action to be taken ahead of a specific future event.

Up to that point

Highlights the progression of time leading to a specific moment.

Before that happens

Focuses on preventing something prior to a future event.

Leading up to that moment

Focuses on the process and events occurring before a significant point in time.

In anticipation of that

Emphasizes planning and preparation for a future event before it occurs.

Until that juncture

A more formal and less common alternative.

FAQs

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

Use "Until then" to indicate a period before a specific event or time. For example, "The repairs will take several weeks. "Until then", the office will be closed."

What's a more formal alternative to "Until then"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "In the meantime" or "Prior to that time". These options are suitable for professional or academic writing.

Is it correct to say "Till then" instead of "Until then"?

Yes, "Till then" is a shorter, more informal version of "Until then". It is grammatically correct and widely understood, but it might be better suited for casual conversations rather than formal writing.

What's the difference between "Until then" and "After that"?

"Until then" refers to the period leading up to a specific time, while "After that" refers to the time following a specific event. They indicate opposite temporal relationships.