then I say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then I say" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a statement or opinion that follows a previous thought or argument. Example: "If we are to consider all the evidence presented, then I say we should proceed with caution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No, since then," I say.

The New York Times

Then I say, yes".

The New York Times

Then I say, no.

The New York Times

Then I say, 'I should do it.

The New Yorker

Then I say, "Smoked mackerel".

The New Yorker

Well, crack on then, I say.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I'm in your classroom then," I say.

The Guardian

"Then, I say: 'O.K., fourth match point.

The New York Times - Sports

You must like it then, I say.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And then I say, Can you teach Marsha too?

The New York Times - Magazine

And then I say, "No, seriously, are you nice?" Q.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then I say" to clearly signal a direct response or conclusion following a statement or question. This is particularly useful in dialogues or arguments where you want to emphasize the connection between the initial point and your reaction.

Common error

While "then I say" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated connectors such as "therefore", "consequently", or "thus" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then I say" functions as a discourse marker, introducing a statement or opinion that logically follows from a previous point. It signifies a sequential or conditional relationship between the initial context and the speaker's subsequent remark. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "then I say" is a versatile discourse marker used to introduce a statement or opinion that directly follows a previous point. Ludwig AI analysis reveals that it is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and media. While appropriate in many contexts, it should be used judiciously in formal writing, where more sophisticated connectors might be preferred. Its primary function is to express a conclusion, offer a suggestion, or voice an opinion in response to a preceding thought or discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

therefore I suggest

Replaces "then" with a more formal conjunction and replaces "say" with a suggestion.

in that case I propose

Similar to suggesting, but implies a more concrete proposal or course of action based on the preceding statement.

hence, my opinion is

More directly indicates that the following statement is a personal belief based on the previous context.

consequently, I believe

Expresses a belief as a logical outcome of what has been previously stated.

subsequently, I assert

Introduces a more emphatic and formal declaration following a prior point.

as a result, I conclude

Highlights the cause-and-effect relationship, leading to a conclusion.

after that, my view is

Indicates a viewpoint that comes after considering the preceding information, focusing on a personal perspective.

following that, I maintain

Emphasizes the sequence of thought, using "maintain" to suggest a steadfast belief.

accordingly, I submit

Presents a formal submission or argument derived from the previous information.

given this, I contend

Suggests that what follows is a firm assertion or argument, based on the information just given.

FAQs

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

"Then I say" is used to introduce a statement or opinion that follows a previous thought or argument. For example: "If we are to consider all the evidence presented, "then I say" we should proceed with caution."

What can I say instead of "then I say"?

You can use alternatives like "therefore I suggest", "in that case I propose", or "subsequently I assert", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "then I say" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "then I say" is generally more suited for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated connectors such as "therefore", "consequently", or "thus".

What is the difference between "then I say" and "so I say"?

"Then I say" implies a direct response or conclusion based on a previous statement, while "so I say" can be used more generally to express an opinion or viewpoint, not necessarily tied to a specific preceding point. The former has a temporal and conditional connection, the latter is less strict.