then later

USAGE SUMMARY

"then later" is a perfectly acceptable, usable phrase in written English.
It typically indicates a sequence of events where something occurs before something else. For example, "I woke up early and then later I went for a walk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If not sooner, then later.

The New Yorker

Then, later, I took over judiciary".

The New York Times

Then later America, like everyone else.

Independent

But then later he clarified his remarks.

The New York Times

Then, later, the pleasant surprise.

The New York Times - Health

Then, later, evergreen temperate trees.

The Guardian

C Then later you got married?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And then, later, out to the airport.

The Guardian - Tech

And then later on, why you do it.

Cornell University

And then, later on, it uses RAX for one calculation.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Somebody could move once and then later on again.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then later" to clearly indicate the sequence of events, ensuring the timeline is easily understood by the reader. This is especially useful when describing processes or narratives.

Common error

Avoid using "then later" when the sequence is already obvious from the context. Overuse can make writing sound repetitive. Instead, consider using alternatives such as "subsequently" or "afterward" to vary your phrasing and improve clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then later" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase used to indicate temporal sequence. As Ludwig AI explains, it signals that an event occurred after a previous one. The examples show it connecting related actions or providing a timeline in narratives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then later" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to indicate temporal sequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively communicates that one event follows another, contributing to a clear timeline in narratives or descriptions. While it is frequently used, especially in news and media, varying your vocabulary with alternatives like "afterward" or "subsequently" can enhance your writing. Avoid redundancy by ensuring the sequence isn't already implied. By considering these points, you can use "then later" effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

after that

This is a very direct and simple way to indicate sequence.

following that

Slightly more formal than "after that", indicating a clear sequence.

afterward

This alternative simply means at a subsequent time.

at a later stage

Highlights that something will occur at a more developed point in time.

subsequently

This is a more formal alternative indicating something that follows in time.

thereafter

A more formal and literary alternative to "then later".

in due course

Implies that something will happen at a suitable time in the future after the initial event.

in the aftermath

Suggests events that happen as a consequence of something.

down the line

Refers to something happening at a later point in time, often implying further into the future.

in the fullness of time

Suggests that something will occur eventually when the moment is right.

FAQs

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

"Then later" is used to show a sequence of events. For example: "I finished my work, "then later" I went to the gym."

What are some alternatives to using "then later"?

Alternatives to "then later" include "after that", "subsequently", or "afterward". The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and the specific context.

Is "then later" redundant?

While "then later" is acceptable, some may find it slightly redundant. Using just "then" or "later" can often suffice, depending on the sentence structure. Consider the context to decide if both words are necessary for clarity.

What is the difference between "then later" and "eventually"?

"Then later" indicates a specific order of events, where one action follows another. "Eventually", on the other hand, suggests that something will happen at some unspecified time in the future; it does not necessarily imply a sequence. For example: "I studied hard, and "then later" I passed the exam", versus "Eventually, I want to travel the world".