then as now

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then as now" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a situation or condition remains the same over time, both in the past and present. Example: "The challenges we face in our industry are significant, then as now, and require innovative solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then, as now, scatology sells.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then, as now, it was against Atlético.

The New York Times - Sports

Then, as now, raised beds were standard.

The New York Times

Then as now, prostitution was a concern.

The New York Times - Arts

Then, as now, the question is quality.

The New York Times

How right he was, then as now.

The Economist

Then as now, a four-letter word.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then as now, there was resistance.

The New York Times

But then, as now, they were exhilarating.

The New York Times

Conservatives, then as now, simultaneously denounced "victimology".

The New Yorker

Then as now, too, prosecutions were rare.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then as now" to draw a direct comparison between past and present situations, emphasizing the continuity or lack of change over time. This phrase adds a sense of historical perspective to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "then as now" in situations where the comparison is overly obvious or adds little value to the sentence. For example, saying "People needed to eat then as now" is redundant because it states a self-evident truth. Ensure the comparison provides meaningful insight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then as now" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that a situation or condition is consistent across time. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in drawing parallels between past and present circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then as now" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to draw parallels between past and present situations, effectively emphasizing continuity and historical context. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and high frequency, particularly in news and media sources. While suitable for various registers, it's important to ensure its use adds meaningful insight rather than stating the obvious. The phrase has several alternatives, such as "then and now", which offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

then and now

A more concise version, omitting "as" for brevity but retaining the core meaning of a comparison between past and present.

as it was then, so it is now

Adds emphasis to the parallel between past and present conditions, highlighting their identical nature.

in the past as in the present

A more formal construction, explicitly referencing past and present time frames.

then and today

Replaces "now" with "today" for a slightly more contemporary feel, still indicating a comparison across time.

as it was at that time, so it is now

Emphasizes the specific moment in the past being compared to the present, adding a touch of formality.

what was true then is true now

Focuses on the truth or validity of a statement across time, rather than a general condition.

the situation then mirrors the situation now

Highlights the mirroring effect between past and present situations, suggesting a close resemblance.

as in the past, so in the present

Emphasizes parallel structure to highlight the similarity between past and present circumstances.

the past echoes in the present

Uses metaphorical language to suggest that the past resonates or continues to influence the present.

history repeats itself

A common idiom suggesting that patterns and events from the past are recurring in the present.

FAQs

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

Use "then as now" to draw a parallel between a past situation and its present-day counterpart, highlighting continuity. For example: "The need for affordable housing was a pressing issue "then as now"."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "then as now"?

Alternatives include "then and now", "as it was then, so it is now", or "in the past as in the present", each offering a slightly different emphasis on the comparison between past and present.

Is it more correct to say "then, as now" or "then as now"?

Both "then, as now" and "then as now" are grammatically acceptable. The inclusion of a comma after "then" depends on the desired rhythm and emphasis. Omitting the comma creates a smoother flow, while including it adds a slight pause.

What's the difference between "then as now" and "at that time and currently"?

"Then as now" is a more concise and idiomatic way to express that a situation is consistent across time. "At that time and currently" is more formal and descriptive, lacking the comparative nuance of "then as now".