free then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "free then" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in a context where you are discussing availability or cost, but it is not commonly used. Example: "If you're free then, we can meet for coffee."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Admission was free then, too.

The New York Times

Where would people get their help for free then?

Independent

Then, you are free, then you can write about everything...

The New Yorker

If you ride for free, then the bus will collapse.

The New Yorker

The rule seems to be: if the service is free, then not much.

The Economist

"If everything is free, then operators will not be able to survive.

The New York Times - Tech

She would be free then, but perhaps too old to enjoy it.

The New Yorker

If the truth shall set you free, then it is a difficult freedom.

The New York Times

"That's good… well done… does that mean the Xbox is free then?

Independent

"If you compare it to free, then 99 cents may seem like a lot.

The New York Times - Arts

The old adage "if the service is free, then you are its product" needs updating.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "free then", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to cost, availability, or a state of being without restrictions. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "free then" in contexts where the meaning could be confused with being 'available at that time' versus 'without cost'. Clarify the context to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "free then" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates a temporal relationship, suggesting that something is initially "free" (whether in cost, availability, or restriction) and then followed by a subsequent event or state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "free then" is an adverbial phrase used to indicate a sequence where something is initially free, whether in terms of cost, availability, or restrictions, followed by a subsequent event or state. While Ludwig AI notes the phrase is not standard, it's considered acceptable when the context clarifies its meaning. It appears most frequently in news and media sources. When using "free then", it's crucial to ensure clarity to avoid ambiguity, specifying whether you're referring to cost, availability, or the absence of restrictions. Related phrases such as "free subsequently" or "unrestricted afterwards" can offer alternative ways to express the same idea with potentially greater clarity. The expert rating of 3.8 reflects the phrase's general acceptability and source authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

free subsequently

Emphasizes the sequential aspect, where 'subsequently' highlights the time order more explicitly than 'then'.

unrestricted afterwards

Focuses on the state of being without restrictions and what happens after that state.

available thereafter

Highlights availability at a later point in time, useful when discussing schedules or resources.

gratis and thereafter

Combines the concept of something being free with a subsequent action or condition.

free of charge and following that

Specifically indicates no cost is involved and then details the ensuing action.

at no cost and next

Similar to 'free of charge', but using 'next' to denote sequence.

complimentary before long

Indicates something is given without charge and soon after something else happens.

for nothing and after that

Emphasizes the lack of cost, and uses 'after that' to show sequence.

free to begin with, next

Highlights the initial state of being free and the transition to another state.

without payment and later

Focuses on the absence of a payment requirement and a subsequent point in time.

FAQs

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

You can use "free then" to indicate a sequence where something is initially free (no cost) or someone is initially free (available) and then something else happens. For example, "Admission was "free then", too" or "If Zarakolu is not "free then", none of us are free".

What are some alternatives to "free then"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "free subsequently", "unrestricted afterwards", or "available thereafter". The best choice depends on whether you're referring to cost, availability, or a lack of restrictions.

Is "free then" grammatically correct?

While not incorrect, "free then" is considered acceptable. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is not standard in written English and may cause confusion. It's important to use it in a context where the meaning is clear to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "free then" and "free afterwards"?

"Free then" implies a sequence where something is initially free, and then something else occurs. "Free afterwards" also implies a sequence but places more emphasis on the subsequent state or action following the initial free status.