can then

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "can then" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce a consequence or result of a particular action. For example: "If you follow these steps, you can then enjoy a delicious homemade cake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Files can then be downloaded and decrypted.

The New York Times - Tech

You can then share your creations online.

The New York Times - Tech

If they can then it's great.

The New York Times

The discount can then continue indefinitely.

The New York Times

The two can then chat electronically.

The New York Times

She can then print out the image.

The New York Times - Tech

Users can then arrange for its replacement.

The Economist

The user can then eavesdrop.

The New York Times

They can then start practising.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

You can then meet.

Forbes

You can then try and counteract them.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can then" to clearly indicate a sequence of actions or a logical consequence in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "can then" in very simple sentences where the sequence is already obvious. It can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can then" functions as an adverbial connector, linking two clauses to indicate a sequence or consequence. It expresses that one action or state is dependent on a preceding one. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage across a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Wiki

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can then" is a common and versatile connector used to indicate a sequence of actions or a logical consequence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal writing. To ensure clarity and conciseness, avoid overuse in simple sentences where the sequence is already obvious. Related phrases like "can subsequently" or "can therefore" can offer slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can subsequently

This alternative emphasizes the temporal sequence of events more directly.

can afterwards

This alternative highlights that the action happens at a later time.

can consequently

This alternative highlights the resulting effect of a previous action or condition.

can therefore

This alternative emphasizes the logical conclusion or inference drawn from a preceding statement.

can thus

This alternative offers a more concise way to express that something follows as a result.

can thereby

This alternative implies that something is achieved by means of a preceding action.

can in turn

This alternative suggests a chain reaction or series of events resulting from the initial action.

can proceed to

This alternative puts more emphasis on the sequential progression of actions.

can go on to

This alternative highlights the continuation or succession of actions.

can as a result

This alternative emphasizes the direct causal relationship between actions.

FAQs

How to use "can then" in a sentence?

"Can then" is used to indicate a sequence of events or a logical consequence. For example, "If you finish your homework, you "can then" watch TV."

What can I say instead of "can then"?

You can use alternatives like "can subsequently", "can therefore", or "can afterwards" depending on the context.

Is "can then" formal or informal?

"Can then" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in various contexts. However, overuse in simple sentences may sound slightly formal.

What's the difference between "can then" and "can also"?

"Can then" indicates a sequence or consequence, while "can also" indicates an additional possibility or action. For example, "You can eat dinner, you "can then" have dessert" versus "You can eat dinner, you can also have a salad".