it is only then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is only then" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something happens or becomes possible only after a particular event has occurred. For example, if you are talking about the process of starting a new business, you could say: "It is only then that the business can begin to generate revenue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is only then that Afghanistan will start to shed its image of oppression and suppression inflicted on girls.

Huffington Post

It is only then that we enjoy it.

The New York Times

It is only then that I do the dialogue".

The Guardian - Film

It is only then that long-term psychological problems may develop".

The New York Times - Magazine

"It is only then, if everything is against him, that he will be sanctioned," McQuaid said.

The New York Times - Sports

It is only then that the settlement is ever likely to be conceived.

The Guardian

It is only then that you realise you have forgotten your instrument, or even how to play one.

The Guardian - Music

It is only then that I notice just how fit and healthy the three of them look.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is only then that I realise  sleeping on the marble floor of a draughty museum is hardly the perfect night's rest.

Independent

It is only then, she suggested, that the couple should have the more conceptual discussions about plans for the future or retirement and how to pay for them.

The New York Times

Way is not being allowed to run until May, and it is only then that the Giants will know how their fullback's knee will respond.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is only then" to clearly establish a temporal sequence where one event is contingent on another. Ensure the context makes it clear what "then" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is only then" without a clear antecedent for "then". Ensure the reader knows exactly which event or time period you're referring to, or rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only then" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a specific point in time when something occurs or becomes possible. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. The examples illustrate its role in establishing temporal sequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is only then" is a grammatically sound and versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate a temporal sequence where one event depends on another. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and appropriate for various contexts. Its frequency across diverse sources, including news, scientific publications, and formal documents, demonstrates its widespread acceptance. When using this phrase, ensure a clear reference for "then" to avoid ambiguity. Related alternatives include "only then" and "not until then", offering options for varying the emphasis and tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only then

This alternative removes the introductory "it is", resulting in a more concise and direct expression, but is interchangeable.

only at that point

Replaces "then" with "at that point" for a slightly more emphatic reference to a specific moment.

not until then

Emphasizes the delay or waiting period before the event can occur.

solely thereafter

Uses "solely" and "thereafter" for a more formal and emphatic tone.

just then

Indicates that something happens immediately after a specific moment.

only at that time

Replaces "then" with "at that time" emphasizing the temporal aspect.

subsequently and only then

Adds "subsequently" to highlight the sequence of events, adding redundancy.

it is only after that

Rephrases the sentence to focus on what comes after a specific event.

only following that

Implies a more structured sequence or process before the event occurs.

it is exclusively then

Replaces "only" with "exclusively" for emphasis on the single possibility.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is only then" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "solely thereafter" or "subsequently and only then", which add emphasis and sophistication to your writing.

What's a simpler way to say "it is only then"?

You can use the shorter version "only then". This is a more direct and concise way to express the same idea.

Is there a difference between "it is only then" and "it is only after that"?

While similar, "it is only then" implies a direct temporal sequence, whereas "it is only after that" emphasizes the condition of something happening after a specific event.

Can I use "it is only when" instead of "it is only then"?

Yes, but the meaning changes slightly. "It is only then" refers specifically to a point in time, while "it is only when" introduces a condition or situation that must be met. Consider: "It is only then that I understood" vs. "It is only when I studied that I understood."