soon then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "soon then" is not an acceptable or grammatically correct phrase in written English.
The phrases "soon" or "then" can be used on their own, but they should not be combined into one phrase as it is incorrect. For example, you can say "I will be there soon" or "I will go there then," but you should not say "I will be there soon then."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So, perhaps quite soon, then.

The Economist

How soon, then, might we expect his retirement?

The Guardian

If they move too soon, then your square will break down from any unusual starting position.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Five months later they said they'd start the taper soon, then they have reversed themselves again.

The New York Times

We hope to finalize the human tissue phase soon, then advance to human trials.

The Guardian

If we don't do it soon then we probably shouldn't bother, really.

The Guardian

"And if we don't turn it around soon, then yeah, we'll have to make some changes".

The New York Times - Sports

Surely, all the momentum now is for independence – if not soon, then eventually.

The Guardian

They are tiptoeing, but they should begin walking soon, then running.

The New York Times - Sports

If we don't reach them soon, then a lot of them are going to die".

The Guardian

If we think about New Zealand too soon then we might get found out".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Although frequently used, consider using grammatically correct alternatives to "soon then", such as "soon afterwards" or "shortly thereafter", to maintain a professional tone in formal writing.

Common error

The phrase "soon then" is often redundant because "then" implies a sequence in time that is already conveyed by "soon". Using them together can make your writing sound awkward. Instead, choose either "soon" or "then" based on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "soon then" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating a timeframe. However, according to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically incorrect, thus making its function disputed despite its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

21%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

14%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "soon then" appears frequently in various sources, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect. Its function is adverbial, indicating a sequence of events occurring in quick succession. Though common in informal registers such as "News & Media", "Wiki" and "Academia", it's advisable to use more grammatically sound alternatives like "soon afterwards" or "shortly thereafter" in formal or professional contexts to ensure clarity and maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Shortly thereafter

Replaces "soon then" with a more formal and precise indication of time immediately following an event.

In short order

Implies that something will happen quickly and efficiently after a preceding event.

Quickly subsequently

Similar to 'soon then' but more explicit about the sequence of events.

Rapidly following that

Emphasizes the speed at which something happens after another event.

Expeditiously after

Highlights the efficiency and speed with which an action follows another.

Presently afterward

Suggests that something will occur in the immediate future after a specific point in time.

Directly afterwards

Indicates a very immediate sequence with minimal delay.

Momentarily after

Emphasizes the brief time between two events.

Swiftly thereafter

Implies a prompt action following a specific event.

Instantly following

Highlights that the action happens without any delay.

FAQs

Is "soon then" grammatically correct?

According to Ludwig AI, the phrase "soon then" is not grammatically correct in standard written English. It's better to use either "soon" or "then" depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "soon then"?

You can use alternatives like "shortly thereafter", "in short order", or simply "soon" or "then" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "soon then"?

While "soon then" might be used in informal speech, it's best to avoid it in formal or professional writing. Opt for more grammatically correct alternatives.

Which is correct, "soon then" or "soon after"?

"Soon after" is grammatically correct and a more appropriate alternative to "soon then" in formal writing.