he then explained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he then explained" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a sequence of events where someone clarifies or elaborates on a topic after a previous statement. For example: "After the question was asked, he then explained the process in detail." Alternative expressions include "he subsequently clarified" and "he then elaborated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And, being David Walsh, he then explained to me why.

The New Yorker

He then explained his main source of anger.

The Guardian

He then explained, "That's one of our backers up there.

The New Yorker

But he then explained that the new revenue could not come from higher tax rates.

The New York Times

This was because he gives away most of his income to charity, he then explained.

The Economist

He then explained to me the finer points of selecting the right street food vendor.

The New York Times - Food

He then explained the costs involved in each type of tunnel.

The New York Times

He then explained what, at Florentine Films, is known as Broyles's Law.

The New Yorker

He then explained further how carefully he tries to pronounce his words and gave an example.

The New Yorker

He then explained that Conan Doyle had felt oppressed by his creation.

The New Yorker

He then explained how the communist papers in Europe wrote tirelessly about de Beistegui's extravagances.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he then explained" to clearly indicate a chronological sequence where someone first makes a statement or observation, and subsequently provides an explanation or further details. This helps maintain a clear and logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "he then explained" when you actually intend to convey a cause-and-effect relationship. Instead of "He failed the test, he then explained it was due to lack of sleep", use a causal connector such as "He failed the test, and he explained it was due to lack of sleep"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he then explained" functions as a narrative connector, linking a preceding statement or event to the subsequent explanation provided by the subject. Ludwig confirms that this usage is grammatically sound and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Science

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he then explained" serves as a straightforward and effective way to connect an earlier statement or occurrence to a subsequent explanation. It's grammatically correct, frequently used, and particularly common in news and media contexts, as validated by Ludwig AI. While alternatives such as "he proceeded to explain" or "he further clarified" exist, "he then explained" is a clear and concise option for indicating a sequence where explanation follows statement. When writing, ensure you're using this phrase to signal a chronological sequence, rather than a direct causal relationship.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he proceeded to explain

Replaces 'then' with 'proceeded', indicating a sequential action of explaining.

he went on to elaborate

Substitutes 'explained' with 'elaborate', suggesting a more detailed explanation.

he further clarified

Replaces 'explained' with 'clarified', focusing on making something clearer.

he detailed

A more concise way of saying that he provided details.

he provided an explanation

Rephrases the sentence structure to emphasize the act of giving an explanation.

he elucidated

Uses a more formal verb, 'elucidated', to mean he made something clear.

he offered an account

Suggests a narrative or descriptive explanation.

he spelled it out

An informal way of saying he explained something very clearly.

he broke it down

Indicates he simplified the explanation for better understanding.

he interpreted

Implies he offered his understanding or interpretation of something.

FAQs

How can I use "he then explained" in a sentence?

Use "he then explained" to show that someone provided an explanation after a statement or event. For example: "The witness described the incident; he then explained his reasons for not intervening."

What are some alternatives to "he then explained"?

You can use alternatives such as "he proceeded to explain", "he went on to elaborate", or "he further clarified" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "he then explained"?

Yes, "he then explained" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate that someone provided an explanation following a prior statement or action. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is standard.

What's the difference between "he explained" and "he then explained"?

"He explained" simply states that he provided an explanation. "He then explained" indicates a sequence of events, showing that the explanation came after something else. The addition of "then" emphasizes the chronological order.