then came

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then came" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a sequence of events, especially when the events are related to each other in some way. For example, "First the storm hit, then came the thunder and lightning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then came Mendenhall, then came oblivion.

The New York Times

Then came the bust.

The New York Times

Then came capitalism.

The New Yorker

Then came the push.

Independent

Cena then came out.

Independent

Then came the show.

The New York Times

Then came overtime.

The New York Times - Sports

Then came life.

The New York Times - Sports

And then came nothing.

The New Yorker

And then came death.

The New Yorker

Then came the surge.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then came" to introduce a significant event or turning point in a narrative, creating a sense of progression and anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "then came" to introduce unrelated or simultaneous events; ensure it clearly follows a chronological order to maintain clarity and coherence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then came" functions as a sequential connector, introducing the next event or element in a narrative or chronological sequence. As Ludwig AI clarifies, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "then came" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed sequential connector. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various writing styles, primarily found in News & Media, Science, and Business contexts. It serves to highlight the chronological progression of events, often emphasizing the impact or significance of what follows. For clarity, ensure its use is reserved for actual sequential events, avoiding misuse in non-chronological contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

next arrived

Focuses on the arrival of something or someone as the next event.

subsequently appeared

Highlights that the appearance of something happened after a previous event.

after that occurred

Emphasizes the occurrence of an event following a prior one.

following this unfolded

Stresses the unfolding or development of events in a sequence.

thereafter ensued

Indicates that something ensued or followed as a direct consequence.

thereupon happened

Highlights that an event happened immediately after another.

at that point emerged

Emphasizes the emergence of something at a specific point in time after a previous event.

in due course followed

Suggests that something followed naturally or as expected in the sequence.

in the aftermath arose

Focuses on what arose or resulted in the aftermath of a previous event.

as a consequence transpired

Highlights that something transpired as a direct consequence of what came before.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "then came" in a sentence?

Use "then came" to introduce a subsequent event in a chronological sequence, often highlighting a significant development or change. For instance, "First, there was anticipation; "then came" the announcement."

What are some alternatives to using "then came"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "next", "subsequently", "after that", or "following this" to indicate a sequence of events. Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning. For example: "next", "subsequently".

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

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "then came", especially when emphasizing the sequence of events. However, ensure that the preceding context makes the chronological connection clear. You can use other expressions to improve context.

What's the difference between "then came" and "after that"?

"Then came" is often used to introduce something significant or noteworthy in a sequence, while "after that" is a more general way to indicate the next event in a series. The former adds a bit more emphasis. You can use "after that" as a general reference.