then we can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then we can" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a subsequent action or possibility that can occur after a certain condition is met. Example: "If we finish the project on time, then we can celebrate our success together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Then we can win".

The New Yorker

Then we can move on".

The New Yorker

"Then we can talk".

The New York Times - Sports

Then we can function".

The Guardian

Then we can celebrate".

The Guardian - Books

"Then we can attract more capital".

The New York Times

Then we can take the answers seriously.

The Economist

Good, then we can attack them together.

The New Yorker

Then we can have maybe a break.

The New York Times

Then we can argue about everything else.

The New York Times

And then we can move into solutions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then we can" to clearly indicate a sequence of actions where the second action is contingent on the first. For instance, "If we gather all the data, then we can analyze the results effectively."

Common error

Avoid using "then we can" in very simple sentences where the sequence is already obvious. For example, instead of "We finish, then we can leave," simply say, "We can leave after we finish."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then we can" serves as a connector and modal expression, linking a condition or prior action to a subsequent possibility or ability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. Examples show it indicates a logical sequence where the "we" gains opportunity or permission after a preceding action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "then we can" is a versatile tool for expressing conditional sequences, highlighting possibilities and permissions contingent on specific events. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various domains. While its frequency and neutral register make it suitable for diverse communication needs, careful attention should be paid to avoid redundancy in simple sentences. By understanding its function and exploring related phrases, writers can effectively leverage "then we can" to convey clear and logical connections in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

after that, we are able to

This phrase uses "are able to" which implies ability, and it changes the structure for a more explicit sequence.

once that's done, we're free to

Highlights completion before the next action, using "free to" instead of "can".

following this, it's possible to

Emphasizes the sequential nature and possibility, altering the modal verb.

subsequently, we have the option to

Replaces "then" with "subsequently" and "can" with "have the option to", making it more formal.

that being the case, we're capable of

Introduces a case and replaces "can" with "are capable of", stressing capability.

assuming that, we're allowed to

Specifies an assumption and replaces "can" with "are allowed to", suggesting allowance.

at that point, we're in a position to

Indicates a specific moment and capability, changing the overall tone.

in that case, we are permitted to

Adds a condition and replaces "can" with "are permitted to", indicating permission.

once this happens, we will

Uses "will" to indicate a future action dependent on a condition being met.

if so, we might

This is a shorter, more conditional alternative, using "might" instead of "can".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "then we can" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "subsequently, we have the option to", "thereafter, we are able to", or "following this, it is possible to".

What's the difference between "then we can" and "then we will"?

"Then we can" implies ability or permission to do something, whereas "then we will" suggests a determined future action. For example, "If we finish the report, "then we can" go home" versus "If we finish the report, "then we will" submit it".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "then we can"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "then we can" is less common. It's generally better to use a conditional structure like "If X happens, "then we can" do Y".

What are some alternatives to "then we can" that imply possibility rather than certainty?

Alternatives that imply possibility include "then we might", "then we could", or "then we may". These options suggest a potential outcome rather than a guaranteed one.