now then

USAGE SUMMARY

"now then" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to signify a transition from one idea to another, often as a way to indicate that an upcoming idea is more important. For example: "Now then, I'd like to introduce you to my new, revolutionary idea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Now then, now then, now then.

The New Yorker

/ Now then".

The New York Times - Books

Now then.

The Guardian - Travel

Now then, Dmitri.

The New Yorker

Now then: the Tryx.

The New York Times - Tech

Now then: the Kindle Fire.

The New York Times - Tech

Now then, Graeme Gibson.

The Guardian - Books

"Hmm, now then.

The Guardian

Now then, be honest.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now then... WICKET!

The Guardian - Sport

Phew! Right, now then.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "now then" sparingly in formal writing. While grammatically correct, its informal tone may not suit academic or professional contexts. Consider replacing it with more formal transitions like "therefore" or "furthermore".

Common error

Avoid using "now then" in formal documents or academic papers. Its colloquial nature can undermine the seriousness and professionalism required in such writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "now then" primarily functions as an interjection. It serves to transition between topics, introduce a new point, offer a mild reprimand, or even act as a casual greeting. Ludwig examples show its versatile use in various conversational contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it’s correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "now then" is a versatile interjection used to transition topics, offer mild admonishment, or as an informal greeting. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English, although its informal tone is more suited for casual conversation and less formal writing contexts. While frequently found in News & Media and Science, it is less common in Encyclopedias and Reference materials. When in doubt, consider more formal alternatives like "therefore" or "moving on" for professional or academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so, let's proceed

Replaces the interjection with a more direct invitation to continue.

right, what's next

Informal way to shift focus, emphasizing immediacy and directness.

okay, moving on

Clearly signals a shift in topic, more explicit than "now then".

well, listen up

Similar in use when offering admonishment, but more forceful.

alright, pay attention

Functions similarly for admonishment, but more commanding in tone.

very well, let's begin

Formal way to initiate or transition, suitable for structured settings.

with that said, let's consider

More elaborate transition phrase, suitable for analytical contexts.

in that case, what about

Introduces a new consideration based on prior information.

that being said, on another note

More sophisticated transition indicating a change in subject.

so, where were we

Used to return to a topic after an interruption or digression.

FAQs

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

"Now then" can be used to transition to a new topic, as in "Now then, let's discuss the budget". It can also be used as a mild admonishment, like "Now then, don't interrupt", or as an informal greeting, such as "Now then, how are you?"

What can I say instead of "now then"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "so then", "therefore", or "moving on" to transition to a new topic. For admonishment, consider "please" or "don't". For greetings, "hello" or "how are you" are suitable alternatives.

Is it correct to use "now then" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "now then" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's best to use more professional alternatives like "therefore", "furthermore", or "however" for transitions, and avoid using it for admonishments or greetings.

What's the difference between "now then" and "so then"?

"Now then" often implies a shift to a slightly more important or pressing matter, or it can serve as a casual greeting. "So then" typically indicates a logical consequence or a summary of previous points. The choice depends on the specific context and intended emphasis.