pretty then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pretty then" is not standard in written English and may be confusing without context.
It could be used in informal conversation or writing to express agreement or acknowledgment of something that was previously stated, but it is not commonly used. Example: "If you think that plan will work, then I guess it's pretty then."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

I was pretty then".

The New York Times

I was very pretty then".

The New Yorker

"I was pretty then, with black hair," Farmanfarmaian said.

The New Yorker

"I was pretty then," said Ms. Oesch, whose skin is still remarkably soft.

The New York Times

There's Taylor Swift, who is very wholesome and pretty; then there's Gaga, who is over the top and extravagant; Rihanna, who is just sexy; and Katy, who is sexy in a funnier way.

The New York Times

I was struck by how casually I call my daughter pretty, then follow it up (when time allows) with a tendentious remark about how of course it doesn't matter whether she's pretty or not.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

She looked prettiest then, emerging from her drugged sleep, erased.

The New Yorker

It's prettier then, and if you get up early you will get more done during the day.

Huffington Post

Being tall gives you physical advantages that would allow you to be faster, stronger and prettier then a shorter girl.

WikiHow

Just make sure you know where you stand, and girls will appreciate but not like it if you're prettier then they are.

WikiHow

So that's pretty good, then.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pretty then", ensure the context clearly indicates that you are referring to a past state or condition. For current attractiveness, use "pretty now" or simply "pretty."

Common error

Avoid using "pretty then" to describe a current state. This phrase implies a contrast between past and present, so it's unsuitable for describing someone or something that is currently attractive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pretty then" functions as an adjective phrase followed by an adverb, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of attractiveness at a specific point in the past. Ludwig examples often use it in reminiscing about how someone looked in the past.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

16%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pretty then" is an adjective + adverb phrase used to describe someone or something that was attractive in the past. Ludwig AI considers its usage acceptable, though it is not standard English and most suitable for informal contexts. If you wish to convey the same idea in a more precise or formal way you may want to consider alternatives such as "attractive at that time" or "beautiful back then". While fairly common in news and media, it's best to reserve "pretty then" for casual settings and ensure the temporal context is clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attractive at that time

Focuses on the physical appearance during a specific period.

beautiful back then

Highlights the beauty of someone or something in the past.

good-looking in those days

Emphasizes a pleasing appearance during a specific time.

appealing at the time

Focuses on the attractiveness during a particular moment.

fairly attractive then

Uses "fairly" to indicate a moderate level of attractiveness at a past time.

quite beautiful then

Employs "quite" to express a noticeable degree of beauty in the past.

rather handsome then

Employs "rather" to denote a notable level of handsomeness in the past.

lovely at that point

Uses 'lovely' to describe something pleasant or enjoyable at a particular point in the past.

nice looking back then

Uses "nice looking" to convey an agreeable appearance in the past.

was pretty at that time

Highlights being in a condition of attractiveness at a particular time.

FAQs

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

You can use "pretty then" to describe someone or something that was attractive in the past. For example: "She was "pretty then", but her style has changed over the years."

What's a more common way to say "pretty then"?

Alternatives include "attractive at the time", "beautiful back then", or "good-looking in those days". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "pretty then"?

While not strictly incorrect, "pretty then" is less common than other phrases. It's generally understood but may sound slightly informal or awkward in formal writing. Ludwig AI considers this usage acceptable.

Can I use "pretty then" to describe something in the present?

No, "pretty then" specifically refers to a past state. To describe current attractiveness, use "pretty now" or simply "pretty."