not so then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not so then" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used in a context where someone is trying to refute or clarify a previous statement, but it may require additional context to be fully understood. Example: "If you believe that the project is failing, then not so then; we have made significant progress."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Not so then".

The New York Times - Sports

Language at the Turkey Barn was coarse and free, but in telling us this Brian used an expression that is commonplace today but was not so then.

The New Yorker

It is from the Latin fructus, meaning "that which is used or enjoyed". If it were not so, then going a-berrying and going to market would be nearly synonymous experiences.

The New York Times - Books

First a perhaps dubious edition that could allude to this week's Easter setting: Then the rather more cutting (or not) paradox: And finally, a timeless memorial to truth (or maybe not): So then, please place your chicken-and-egg song nominations in the boxes provided below, and optionally in the Spotify playlist, by last orders 11pm UK time on Monday 6 April, for publication next Thursday 9 April.

The Guardian - Music

If it is not so then there exits x1 ∈ ℝ n such that F x1) < F x0).

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Suppose that it is not so, then there exists with and the sequence satisfies: as Set Then as and Since and then there exists such that (33).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Research just published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society, however, suggests it wasn't so then, either.

The Economist

We didn't, so then you have to take the second prize of a point".

BBC

"We thought he was OK for the Hennessy but it turned out he wasn't so then he needed more time off.

BBC

If not, then so be it.

The New York Times - Sports

Not, then, so easy to forget.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not so then", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being refuted. Clarity is key as this phrase can sometimes sound ambiguous.

Common error

Avoid using "not so then" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for clearer and more direct alternatives like "otherwise" or "if not, then" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not so then" primarily functions as a connector indicating a contrast or alternative. It sets up a condition where if the initial statement is not true, a different outcome or action will follow. Ludwig provides examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not so then" functions as a connective phrase used to introduce a consequence based on the falsity of a previous statement. Ludwig AI acknowledges that while grammatically acceptable, it can sometimes lack clarity and benefit from stronger alternatives. Its use is common across various contexts, including news, science, and more informal settings. When writing, consider whether a more direct alternative like "otherwise" or "if not, then" might improve clarity and maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if not, then

A shortened version expressing the same conditional contrast.

if that's not the case, then

More explicit in stating a condition that is not met.

if that isn't so, then

Replaces "not so" with a more formal equivalent.

otherwise

More concise and frequently used in similar contexts.

if the contrary is true, then

A more emphatic way to express a contrasting condition.

should that not be the case, then

Adds a level of formality and emphasis.

failing that

Highlights the unsuccessful attempt of a prior condition.

in that event

Focuses on the consequence of an alternative condition.

on the other hand, then

Introduces a contrasting aspect or condition.

in the absence of that

Emphasizes the lack of the initial condition.

FAQs

What does "not so then" mean?

"Not so then" is used to express that something is not the case, and, as a result, something else follows. It's a way of stating a condition and its consequence if the condition isn't met.

How can I use "not so then" in a sentence?

You can use "not so then" to refute a previous statement and introduce a consequence. For example, "If the data is accurate, then the results are valid. If "not so then", we need to re-evaluate our methodology."

Are there more formal alternatives to "not so then"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "otherwise", "if that is not the case, then", or "if not, then". These options are generally preferred in academic and professional writing.

Is it grammatically correct to use "not so then"?

While grammatically acceptable, "not so then" can sometimes sound awkward or unclear depending on the context. Ludwig AI indicates it may require additional context to be fully understood.