come on then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "come on then" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a common expression used to urge someone to take action or start something. Example: "We've been talking about going on a hike for weeks, come on then, let's finally do it this weekend!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Like something straight out of a football hooligan film, one shouted "Come on then!" with the appropriate chest-out, arms-wide stance and they all charged.

Vice

"Come on, then".

The New Yorker

"O.K., well, come on, then".

The New York Times - Magazine

Just to sleep?" "Come on, then.

The New Yorker

"Come on then!" he says and strides towards the set.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Come on then cleverdick," goes this particular species of email, "where are these famous weapons, then?

The Guardian

"Come on, then," it would say: "if you're so busy, start doing something".

The Guardian - Opinion

Can't imagine why she's still so popular … So come on, then – who did I miss?

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Ahead of us, the lorry's brake lights came on, then the vehicle shuddered and began to move forward.

The Guardian - Travel

Press and HOLD the "CODE SEARCH" button until the red indicator LED comes ON, then release the "CODE SEARCH" button.

WikiHow

"44 hours to lift off!!" Then "We are opening in two hours, come on down!" Then "Come and have breakfast, Nutella and banana sandwich... yum".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "come on then" when you want to express encouragement or a challenge, especially in informal settings or direct conversations. It adds a sense of immediacy and can motivate action.

Common error

Avoid using "come on then" in highly formal writing or professional communications. Opt for more professional alternatives like "let's proceed" or "we should begin" to maintain a more suitable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "come on then" primarily functions as an interjection or exhortation. It's used to prompt action, express encouragement, or issue a challenge, often carrying a sense of immediacy. Examples in Ludwig show it urging someone to begin or to confront a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

18%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

15%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "come on then" is a versatile phrase primarily used for encouragement, instigation, or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in varied contexts, especially within News & Media and Academia. While its informal register makes it unsuitable for formal or professional settings, it effectively conveys immediacy and a call to action. Alternatives like "let's go" or "hurry up" can be used depending on the specific nuance intended. Remembering to consider context and audience will help ensure its appropriate and impactful use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let's go

A simple and direct way to initiate movement or action.

Get a move on

Emphasizes the need for increased speed or urgency.

Hurry up

Implies a need for haste, often when time is limited.

Let's get started

Focuses on initiating a task or activity.

What are we waiting for

Expresses impatience and a desire to begin.

Enough dilly-dallying

Indicates impatience with delay or hesitation.

On your marks

Prepares someone to begin an action, like a race.

Step on it

Urges someone to accelerate or increase their pace.

Get cracking

Encourages starting a task with enthusiasm.

Don't delay

Directly advises against procrastination.

FAQs

How can I use "come on then" in a sentence?

"Come on then" is typically used to urge someone to take action. For example, "We've been planning this trip for ages, come on then, let's book the tickets!"

What's a more formal alternative to "come on then"?

In professional settings, you can use phrases like "let's proceed", "shall we begin", or "we should start" instead of "come on then".

Is "come on then" grammatically correct?

Yes, "come on then" is grammatically acceptable in informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage.

What does "come on then" imply?

"Come on then" generally implies encouragement, urgency, or a challenge, depending on the context. It can motivate someone to start an activity or face a challenge directly.