exactly then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exactly then" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a specific point in time or to confirm something that has just been stated. Example: "If we are meeting at 3 PM, then exactly then is when I will arrive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I don't remember who spoke to me exactly then.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So, what exactly then, are we supposed to think?

Independent

What exactly then is Dutton's comment attempting to say?

The Guardian - Opinion

If both are known exactly, then the entire future of the system is determined.

The Economist

Or if not that exactly, then proof we have inflicted serious damage.

The New York Times

If we know the orbit exactly, then we can figure out what the planet's mass is compared to the star.

Cornell University

In all likelihood these two integers are equal, digit by digit if not exactly, then very nearly so.

Encyclopedia Britannica

How one gets from swabbing to streaming is shrouded in, well, if not mystery, exactly, then at least ambiguity.

The New York Times - Style

She used to feel, if not guilty exactly, then at least a little embarrassed about her profession.

The New York Times

How exactly then, do we imagine future generations will suffer as a result of us living on their credit card?

The Guardian - Opinion

By this stage, though, if the point hasn't been proved, exactly, then at least it seems a possibility.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "exactly then". It's suitable for both formal and informal writing, but be mindful of the tone you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "exactly then" when the reference point in time is unclear. Ensure that the reader can easily understand which moment you are referring to, or use a more specific time reference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly then" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause to specify a precise moment in time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it emphasizes the accuracy or immediacy of an action or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

25%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverbial phrase "exactly then" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression in English to emphasize the precise timing of an event. As highlighted by Ludwig, it clarifies when something occurs or should occur, reducing ambiguity and is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's particularly common in News & Media. When writing, use "exactly then" when you want to highlight a specific moment in time. Be sure the context is clear so that readers easily understand the time reference. While other phrases like "precisely at that moment" or "at that precise instant" exist as alternatives, "exactly then" provides a direct and effective way to convey timing accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely at that moment

Emphasizes the specific timing with a more formal tone.

at that precise instant

Highlights the accuracy and immediacy of the timing.

right at that time

Simple and direct, indicating a specific point in time.

at that very second

Underscores the exactness and brevity of the moment.

specifically at that point

Focuses on a particular point in time, adding specificity.

just at that moment

Indicates immediacy and spontaneity.

at the appointed time

Emphasizes a prearranged or scheduled time.

punctually at that hour

Highlights strict adherence to a specific time.

at the stroke of

Implies a dramatic or significant timing.

at that juncture

More formal, indicating a critical point in time or events.

FAQs

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

You can use "exactly then" to emphasize a specific point in time. For example, "If the meeting starts at 2 PM, then "exactly then" is when the presentation should begin."

What are some alternatives to "exactly then"?

Alternatives include "precisely at that moment", "at that precise instant", or "right at that time", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "exactly then" after already specifying a time?

While it can sometimes be redundant, using "exactly then" can add emphasis and clarity, reinforcing the importance of the specific moment in time.

What's the difference between "exactly then" and "at that time"?

"Exactly then" emphasizes the precision and specific nature of the timing, whereas "at that time" is a more general reference to a point in the past or future.