then maybe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then maybe" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to express uncertainty or hesitation in a statement or suggestion. Example: "I'm not sure if I want to go to the party tonight. I have a lot of work to do, but then maybe I'll regret it if I don't go."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then, maybe".

The New Yorker

Then maybe.

The New Yorker

Then maybe we weren't.

The New York Times

Then maybe we aren't.

The New York Times

Then maybe we'll talk".

The New York Times

Or then, maybe not.

The New York Times

But then maybe not.

The Guardian - Travel

AND then maybe so.

The New York Times

Then, maybe something changes".

The New York Times

And then, maybe not.

The New York Times

"Then maybe we can help".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then maybe" to introduce a suggestion or possibility that is contingent on a previous condition or action. It indicates uncertainty and a sequential relationship between events.

Common error

In formal writing, overuse of "then maybe" can make your tone sound too informal or hesitant. Consider using stronger, more direct phrasing to convey certainty or use alternatives like "subsequently it is conceivable" to maintain a formal tone while expressing possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then maybe" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to express a combination of sequence and possibility. It indicates that an action or event is contingent on a preceding condition, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "then maybe" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that expresses a combination of sequence and possibility. As Ludwig AI points out, it is widely used in various contexts, especially in news and media, and to a lesser extent in academic and wiki sources. While its register is generally neutral, it's advisable to avoid overuse in strictly formal writing. Alternatives like "possibly then" or "perhaps subsequently" can provide a more formal tone. "Then maybe" serves to introduce uncertainty or speculation, suggesting a potential outcome contingent on a previous condition. Understanding its nuances ensures effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

possibly then

Reverses the order of words while maintaining the core meaning of uncertainty and sequence.

perhaps subsequently

Replaces "maybe" with "perhaps" and "then" with a more formal "subsequently", indicating possibility and a following action or event.

it is possible that afterwards

A more verbose construction expressing possibility and sequence.

in that case perhaps

Highlights the conditional aspect, suggesting a possibility based on a preceding condition.

if so possibly

Emphasizes the conditionality and uses "possibly" as an alternative to "maybe".

subsequently it is conceivable

A formal restructuring, indicating a later possibility.

thereafter perhaps

Uses more formal synonyms to express a sense of time and uncertainty.

it could happen then

Replaces "maybe" with "it could happen" to express possibility, retaining "then" for sequence.

following that possibly

Similar to "perhaps subsequently", but with slightly different word choices.

later it's conceivable

Highlights that the event could happen later and it is conceivable, swapping the sentence order.

FAQs

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

You can use "then maybe" to express a possible outcome contingent on a prior action or condition. For example, "If the weather improves, "then maybe" we can go for a hike."

What are some alternatives to "then maybe"?

Alternatives include "possibly then", "perhaps subsequently", or "in that case perhaps", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it grammatically correct to say "then maybe"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Then" functions as an adverb of time, and "maybe" is also an adverb expressing possibility. Their combination is commonly used to indicate a sequence of events and a degree of uncertainty.

What's the difference between "then maybe" and "maybe then"?

"Then maybe" emphasizes the sequence before the possibility, suggesting that something might happen after a condition is met. "Maybe then" puts the emphasis on the uncertainty, suggesting that something might happen at that time, but it's not certain. The difference is subtle and context-dependent, but the order changes the emphasis.