so then

USAGE SUMMARY

"so then" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used as a transition phrase to introduce a logical conclusion. Example: I failed the exam, so then I had to take it again the following month.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So, then what?

The New York Times

So then now.

The New Yorker

So then I'll say: "O.K.

The New York Times

So, then, what about them?

The New York Times

"So then they take photographs.

The New York Times - Magazine

KHATCHADOURIAN: So then what happened?

The New Yorker

So then there were seven.

The New Yorker

So then whatever happened happened.

The New Yorker

So then I got sober.

The Guardian - Opinion

Not so then".

The New York Times - Sports

"So, then?" Samsa echoed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "so then" to clearly signal a transition in your narrative or argument, indicating that what follows is a direct consequence or logical continuation of what preceded it. This can enhance clarity and flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "so then" in formal essays or professional reports. While grammatically sound, its frequent use can make your writing sound repetitive. Opt for more varied transitional phrases like "therefore", "consequently", or "as a result" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so then" functions primarily as a transitional adverbial phrase, connecting clauses or sentences to indicate a logical sequence, consequence, or conclusion. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's used to introduce logical conclusions. Examples show it in diverse contexts, from news to personal narratives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "so then" is a versatile adverbial phrase that serves as a transitional marker, indicating a logical consequence or continuation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and suitable for various writing contexts. While its frequency suggests widespread acceptance, be mindful of overusing it in very formal writing. Its prevalence in sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its common usage in news and media. Overall, "so then" is a reliable tool for connecting ideas and guiding your reader through your narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

therefore

This alternative is a single-word conjunction that directly indicates a consequence or logical conclusion.

consequently

This alternative emphasizes that something follows as a direct result of a previous action or statement.

as a result

This phrase highlights the direct outcome or effect of a preceding event or situation.

hence

This alternative is a more formal way to indicate a logical deduction or conclusion.

thus

This word suggests a direct and logical continuation from one point to another.

accordingly

This alternative implies that actions or decisions are being made in response to a prior situation.

subsequently

This term indicates that something happens after a previous event, often with a cause-and-effect relationship.

in that case

This phrase introduces a conclusion or action that is appropriate given the circumstances mentioned previously.

that being the case

A more formal way of saying "in that case", implying a logical next step based on prior information.

that implies

This alternative highlights the logical consequences or suggestions derived from a preceding statement.

FAQs

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

"So then" is used to indicate a consequence or logical continuation. For example, "I studied hard, "so then" I passed the exam."

What are some alternatives to "so then"?

Alternatives include "therefore", "consequently", "as a result", and "hence". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "so then"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, although it's more common to see it used mid-sentence as a transitional phrase. Starting a sentence with "so then" can sometimes sound informal.

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

While both indicate a consequence, "so then" can sometimes imply a more immediate or conversational connection, whereas "therefore" is generally considered more formal and precise. Both can be used to introduce a logical conclusion.