then then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then then" is not standard in written English and may be considered incorrect or a typographical error.
It could be used in a context where a repetition is intended for emphasis, but this is rare and generally not advisable. Example: "We decided to go to the park, and then then we realized it was closed."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"Then?" "Then maybe I should quit".

The New Yorker

If not then, then never.

The New York Times - Sports

There was no "then" then.

The New York Times - Science

And then — then you'll get to work.

The New Yorker

"Then?" "Then I'm driving down to see a friend".

The New Yorker

And then, then I would just be really happy".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

And then... then, the last 15 minutes were absolutely outrageous.

The Guardian - Sport

I felt awkward, and then … then there was the glorious realisation that I could just … leave.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then... then... then.

Huffington Post

And then... then comes the semi, and my year-ago nemesis himself.

Vice

And then… Then these emotions have come out.

Australian Educational Researcher

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "then then" in formal writing. If emphasis is needed, consider rephrasing the sentence for clarity and impact.

Common error

Using "then then" can make your writing appear repetitive and less professional. Instead, opt for single instances of "then" or use stronger transitional words to clearly mark the sequence of events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then then" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier indicating sequence in time or logical consequence. Ludwig highlights that it's often viewed as grammatically questionable, suggesting it should be used with caution or replaced with more standard alternatives. Repetition may aim to emphasize temporal succession.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

28%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "then then" is frequently found, but its grammatical status is questionable. As Ludwig points out, it is generally considered incorrect in formal writing. Analysis of its function reveals it aims to emphasize sequence or consequence, and it appears more often in informal contexts such as general discussions or Wiki articles, although it does surface in some news outlets too. When clarity and grammatical correctness are paramount, it's advisable to opt for alternatives like "and then" or "subsequently". While it might be used for emphasis, the risk of being perceived as repetitive or unpolished is high. Therefore, use "then then" sparingly, if at all, particularly in professional or academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

next

This option provides a simpler way to denote sequence, often used to guide through steps or events in a clear and concise manner.

and then

This alternative replaces the repetition of "then" with a more standard conjunction, providing a smoother transition in narrative or sequential contexts.

after that

A straightforward and common way to express sequence, suitable for many contexts and carrying a casual tone.

afterward

"Afterward" implies a temporal sequence, indicating a moment or event that follows a previous one. It's less formal than "subsequently".

subsequently

This choice introduces a sense of chronological order, emphasizing that the event in question occurred after a specific point in time.

following that

A more descriptive phrase to indicate sequence, giving slightly more weight to the transition between events or steps.

thereupon

Using "thereupon" offers a more formal and concise way to indicate what immediately follows an event or action.

thereafter

"Thereafter" signifies a continuation from a specific point, suggesting that something continues to happen after that designated time.

in turn

This indicates a sequential or consequential relationship, suggesting that one thing leads to another in a structured order.

immediately after

Emphasizes the closeness in time between two events, suggesting the second occurs without delay after the first.

FAQs

Is "then then" grammatically correct?

The phrase "then then" is generally considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. While it may appear in some contexts, it's often seen as a stylistic error or a typographical mistake. It's better to use "then" once or rephrase the sentence for clarity.

How can I emphasize sequence without using "then then"?

To emphasize sequence without using "then then", you can use alternatives like "and then", "subsequently", or "afterward" to create a more polished and grammatically correct sentence.

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

"Then" indicates sequence or consequence in time. "Then then" is a redundant construction that does not add meaning and is typically considered incorrect. Using just "then" or a different transitional phrase is preferable.

When is it acceptable to repeat "then"?

Repeating "then" is rarely acceptable in formal writing. In informal speech or creative writing, it might be used for emphasis or stylistic effect, but it should be done intentionally and sparingly. Consider alternatives like "and then" for clearer communication.