then continue

USAGE SUMMARY

"then continue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action that is ongoing, or to introduce the next step in a process. For example, "Follow the instructions, then continue with the next step."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The stumble towards peace could then continue.

The Economist

The discount can then continue indefinitely.

The New York Times

Then continue with the spade jack.

The New York Times - Arts

Grant & Ward could then continue to bamboozle.

The New York Times - Books

Then continue with the remaining proposal sections.

Stanford University

Then continue our negotiations, state to state.

The New Yorker

Why, then, continue the expensive search?

The Guardian - Books

The organs then continue to grow after they are transplanted.

Independent

The clampdown will then continue in stages.

BBC

Researchers should then continue to refer to their national legislation.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

The other group could then continue to be screened regularly.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, ensure that the "then continue" phrase is followed by a specific and actionable step, leaving no room for ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically sound, avoid using "then continue" excessively in very informal settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "and then" or "next" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then continue" functions as a transitional phrase indicating a sequential action or step. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, serving to guide or instruct the reader/listener to proceed further. Examples show it connecting clauses, signaling what to do next.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

43%

News & Media

28%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then continue" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to indicate the next step in a sequence. It functions as a transitional marker, providing clear guidance in procedural contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. While applicable across registers, it should be used judiciously in overly informal settings. Top sources include wikiHow, Huffington Post, and BBC, demonstrating its widespread use. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "next" or "after that" to maintain a natural and fluid writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

next, go ahead

Offers a simple and direct way to suggest the next step.

from there, go on

Implies a logical progression or sequence of events.

after that, proceed

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the action with a slightly more formal tone.

afterward, resume

Focuses on restarting an action after a pause.

subsequently, carry on

Uses more formal vocabulary to indicate continuation in a sequence.

thereafter, keep going

Indicates a continuation following a specific event, slightly more emphatic.

following this, proceed further

Highlights the continuation with added emphasis on moving forward.

moving on, advance

Suggests progression to a new stage or element.

once that is done, keep it up

Encourages ongoing effort after a task is completed.

with that said, persist

Advises maintaining effort despite potential obstacles.

FAQs

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

The phrase "then continue" is used to indicate the next step in a sequence of actions or instructions. For example, "Mix the ingredients, then continue stirring until smooth."

What are some alternatives to "then continue"?

Alternatives to "then continue" include "next", "after that", or "subsequently" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "and then continue"?

While not grammatically incorrect, using "and then continue" can be redundant. "Then continue" is generally sufficient and more concise. For instance, instead of "Mix and then continue stirring", simply say "Mix, then continue stirring".

What is the difference between "then continue" and "then proceed"?

"Then continue" implies carrying on with an existing action, whereas "then proceed" suggests moving on to a new, distinct action or stage. Both are used to advance to the next step.