then say

USAGE SUMMARY

"then say" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe what someone should do after they do something else. For example, "If you are asked any questions, pause for a moment before you answer, then say something thoughtful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Then say it's for you".

The New Yorker

Then say what you're unhappy with.

Independent

"Then say that" was my advice.

The Economist

I said: OK, then say that.

The Economist

Ideally he would then say no more".

The Guardian - Business

Then say: "It's not you.

The Washington Post

And he would then say, OK.

Yale University

They then say, "A what?".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Your selling costs were then, say, £15,000.

The Economist

Pick a topic and then say, "Okay.

MIT Technology Review

The public can then say, See?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "then say" in dialogue, ensure it accurately reflects the speaker's tone and intention to maintain authenticity.

Common error

Avoid using "then say" to describe actions happening at the same time. It's best suited for sequential events, not concurrent ones.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then say" functions as a sequential connector, indicating an action (saying something) that follows a previous action or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

32%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "then say" is a grammatically sound and frequently used sequential connector, guiding individuals on what to articulate after a particular action or event. According to Ludwig AI, it’s correct and usable in written English. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general instructions. While it’s important to use "then say" to describe actions that follow a sequence, avoid using it for simultaneous events. Alternatives such as "afterward say" or "subsequently state" may be used for different tones or contexts. With these guidelines, you can confidently and effectively use "then say" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

and then articulate

Similar to "then say", emphasizing the act of expressing something clearly after a previous action.

afterward say

Emphasizes the temporal sequence of speaking after a prior action. Less direct than "then say".

subsequently state

A more formal way to indicate a statement following a previous action. Implies a logical sequence.

next articulate

Highlights the act of clearly expressing something in sequence. More emphasis on clarity of speech.

thereafter mention

A formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "then say", implying a chronological order.

at that point, declare

Indicates a specific moment to make a statement, often with emphasis.

following that, add

Breaks the action into two distinct parts, focusing on adding information.

once completed, respond with

Specifies a condition for responding, emphasizing completion of a task.

having done that, express

Implies a complete action before expressing something, formal tone.

on that note, add

Highlights the statement as an addition to previous information.

FAQs

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

Use "then say" to instruct someone on what to say after completing a previous step. For example, "First, gather your materials, "then say" 'I am ready to begin'."

What is a formal alternative to "then say"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "subsequently state" or "thereafter mention". These phrases provide a similar sequential instruction in a more professional context.

Is "then say" appropriate for written instructions?

Yes, "then say" is suitable for written instructions, especially when providing a step-by-step guide. It clearly indicates what to express verbally after a specific action.

Can I use "then say" in a narrative context?

Yes, you can use "then say" in a narrative context to describe what a character says after a specific event or action. It helps maintain the chronological order of events.