but then subsequently

USAGE SUMMARY

'but then subsequently' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that one thing happened after another, e.g. "I initially had no interest in the project, but then subsequently changed my mind and got involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Dowden admitted as much (but then subsequently complained to the Guardian about me).

The Guardian

But then, subsequently, I was asked  if I would write this new four-part version.

The New York Times

He said: "There will be instances when individuals come to the notice of the security service or the police, but then subsequently carry out acts of terrorism.

The Guardian

"There will be instances when individuals come to the notice of the security service or the police, but then subsequently carry out acts of terrorism," he said.

The New York Times

You also have to repay the credit if you took advantage of it for a home you bought in 2009 or 2010, but then subsequently sold the home.

The New York Times

Downing Street initially dismissed their existence, but then subsequently refused to discuss the legal advice that had been given to keep them private.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

EA alumnus John Schappert was brought on to help the company go public, but was then subsequently replaced by David Ko, who was known for his strong business sense.

TechCrunch

We therefore restrict the sample to focus on those in the grandfathered group with a youngest child aged under seven as of 1st July 2007, but who then subsequently turned seven during the following year.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

Instead we primarily exploit information on those in the grandfathered group with a youngest child aged under seven as of 1st July 2007, but who then subsequently turned seven within our sample period.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

Robben replaced Joe Cole at half time, but was then subsequently substituted himself for Ashley Cole in extra time as Chelsea emerged victorious.

Wikipedia

On the other hand, CD25 is upregulated on recently activated Teff cells, but is then subsequently released into the culture medium.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but then subsequently" to clearly indicate a sequence of events, particularly when the second event is unexpected or contrasts with the first. This can improve clarity in complex narratives or instructions.

Common error

Be mindful that "but then" already implies a sequence. Using "subsequently" immediately after can be redundant. Consider if "but then" alone suffices to convey the intended meaning or if "subsequently" adds significant emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but then subsequently" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, linking two clauses or sentences to indicate a sequence of events with a contrasting element. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in connecting actions or states that occur one after the other, often with a sense of consequence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "but then subsequently" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a sequence of events, often with a contrasting element. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. While predominantly found in news and scientific contexts, its formality level ranges from neutral to formal. While effective for clearly establishing chronological order, writers should be cautious of potential redundancy, as the "but then" already suggests sequence. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "however, thereafter" or "yet, afterwards" to maintain a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, thereafter

Replaces "but then" with "however", offering a slightly more formal tone, while "thereafter" replaces "subsequently" with a single word conveying sequence. Similarity is high.

yet, afterwards

"Yet" provides contrast like "but", and "afterwards" is a simple synonym for "subsequently". This is a concise alternative.

but later on

Simplifies "subsequently" to "later on", making the sentence more informal and easier to understand.

however, following that

Replaces the combined phrase with a more descriptive and slightly more formal alternative emphasizing a direct sequence.

nonetheless, after that

"Nonetheless" serves as a contrast, while "after that" clarifies the order of events. Retains the core meaning with slightly different wording.

but consequently

Emphasizes the result of the initial action by replacing "subsequently" with "consequently", indicating a cause-and-effect relationship.

and then

A much more concise and informal replacement, suitable for less formal contexts. Loses some of the emphasis on the sequence.

but in due course

Offers a more formal and time-oriented replacement, implying that the second event happened at a suitable time after the first.

though, thereafter

"Though" is a softer contrast than "but", while "thereafter" maintains the sequential meaning.

yet, in the aftermath

Presents the second event as occurring as a consequence of the first, focusing on the period following the initial event.

FAQs

How can I use "but then subsequently" in a sentence?

The phrase "but then subsequently" is used to indicate that something happened after something else, often in a way that is a consequence or development of the initial event. For example, "The company initially struggled, but then subsequently found success with a new product line."

What phrases are similar to "but then subsequently"?

Similar phrases include "however, thereafter", "yet, afterwards", and "but later on". These alternatives can help you vary your writing while maintaining a similar meaning.

Is it redundant to use "but then subsequently"?

Yes, the phrase can sometimes be redundant, as "but then" already implies a sequence. Consider whether the "subsequently" adds necessary emphasis or if it can be omitted for conciseness. If you want to express the consequences explicitly consider using words like "but consequently".

When is it appropriate to use "but then subsequently" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize a clear chronological order and highlight a contrasting or unexpected development. It's particularly useful in formal writing or when clarifying complex situations where the sequence of events is important.