then though

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then though" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in informal contexts where someone is trying to convey a contrast or exception, but it is not commonly accepted. Example: "I wanted to go to the party, then though I had too much work to do."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Since then, though, her enthusiasm has foundered.

The New Yorker

Since then, though, the wonder has faded.

The New Yorker

By then, though, he's engaged.

The Guardian - Books

Since then, though, Claiborne's E.R.A. is 9.95.

The New York Times - Sports

Until then, though, everything will fascinate him.

The New York Times - Books

Every now and then, though, someone stops.

The New York Times

Even then, though, there's still hope.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

By then, though, Teterboro needn't have worried.

The Guardian

Back then, though, we weren't sleeping together.

The New Yorker

Even then, though, his performance seemed generalised.

The Guardian - Music

By then, though, no one was listening.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "then though" is commonly used, consider your audience. In formal writing, opt for more standard alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid using "then though" in academic papers or business reports. Its informal nature can undermine the credibility and professionalism of your writing. Instead, use stronger, more formal transition words such as "consequently", "furthermore", or "in addition".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then though" primarily functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two clauses, introducing a contrast or exception to the preceding statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, while not considered standard grammar, it's commonly used in certain contexts to create a conversational tone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then though" is a conjunctive phrase used to introduce a contrast or exception. While Ludwig AI notes it's not considered standard grammar, it's frequently used, particularly in news and media. Its informal register makes it suitable for casual communication, but it should be used with caution in formal writing where alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" are more appropriate. Remember to consider your audience and the context to make the best choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however then

Reverses the order of the words while maintaining the core contrasting meaning.

but then

A more conventional and grammatically standard way to express a contrast following a statement.

yet even then

Adds emphasis to the contrast, suggesting that something remains true despite a previous condition.

nonetheless then

A more formal alternative that emphasizes a strong contrast or concession.

still at that point

Focuses on a specific moment in time while introducing a contrasting element.

even so then

Similar to "but then", but implies a slight surprise or unexpected contrast.

in spite of that though

Highlights the contrasting element despite a preceding situation.

despite that then

A shorter alternative that still conveys the sense of contrast or exception.

on the other hand though

Introduces a contrasting viewpoint or situation, providing a balanced perspective.

conversely at that time

Introduces an idea or statement that reverses a previous one.

FAQs

What does "then though" mean in a sentence?

"Then though" is used to introduce a contrast or exception, similar to "however" or "nevertheless". It indicates that despite what was previously stated, something else is also true. For example, "I wanted to go to the party, "then though" I had too much work to do."

What can I say instead of "then though"?

You can use alternatives like "however", "nevertheless", or "but then" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "then though"?

While commonly used, "then though" is not considered standard grammar. In formal writing, it's best to use more conventional alternatives like "however" or "although".

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

"Even though" introduces a subordinate clause expressing a condition or concession. "Then though", while similar in intent, acts more as a conjunctive adverb providing a contrast. "Even though it was raining, we went for a walk" versus "We planned to stay inside; "then though", we decided to go for a walk anyway".