then we could

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then we could" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest a possibility or a conditional action that may occur if certain conditions are met. Example: "If we finish the project early, then we could take a break and celebrate our success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then we could get jobs.

The New York Times

Then we could shag".

The Guardian - Books

Then we could have RCH2OH.

Yale University

Then we could go RCOOH.

Yale University

Maybe then we could get help".

The New York Times

"Then we could add goldfish," David said.

The New Yorker

(Then we could stay off the subway).

The New Yorker

Then we could kill children.

The New York Times

Then we could individualize each report.

Columbia University

And then we could go to alkyne.

Yale University

"Then we could fence it off.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger alternatives like "therefore" or "consequently" if you aim to emphasize a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "then we could" without a clearly defined condition. Ensure the 'then' part directly follows or is obviously linked to the 'if' or conditional clause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then we could" functions as a conditional connector, linking a preceding condition or action with a subsequent potential outcome. It suggests a logical sequence where the second action becomes possible or feasible if the first condition is met. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

17%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then we could" is a versatile phrase used to express conditional possibilities, linking a condition to a potential outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used across diverse contexts. While broadly applicable, writers should ensure a clear conditional link for effective communication. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Academia. For alternative expressions and to enhance writing precision, consider "subsequently we were able to" or "as a result we can" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a result, we can

Directly indicates consequence with "as a result" and uses "can" to suggest possibility.

in that case, we might

Uses "in that case" to show condition and "might" for possibility instead of "could".

following that, we would be able to

Combines sequencing ("following that") with potential ability ("would be able to").

given that, we will be able to

Highlights the premise with "given that" and future ability with "will be able to".

subsequently we were able to

Replaces "then" with "subsequently" and "could" with "were able to", indicating a later ability.

if that happens, we are able to

Emphasizes the conditional nature with "if that happens" and uses "are able to" to show capability.

after that, we had the option to

Breaks down the connection with "after that" indicating sequence and "had the option to" signifying possibility.

because of that, we are permitted to

Shows cause and effect using "because of that" and indicates permission to do something.

thereupon, we had the opportunity to

Replaces "then" with the more formal "thereupon" and "could" with "had the opportunity to".

that being the case, we are allowed to

Expresses condition with "that being the case" and permission with "are allowed to".

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "subsequently, we would be able to", "thereafter, we could", or "in that case, we might consider". These options offer a heightened level of formality while maintaining the conditional aspect of the original phrase.

What does "then we could" imply in a sentence?

The phrase "then we could" implies a conditional action or possibility. It suggests that if a certain condition is met or a specific event occurs, a particular action becomes possible or feasible. It establishes a sequential relationship between the condition and the potential outcome.

Is it ever incorrect to use "then we could"?

While grammatically correct, using "then we could" might be stylistically weak if the conditional relationship is not clear. Ensure the 'then' clause directly relates to a preceding 'if' or conditional statement. Overuse can also make your writing sound repetitive; consider alternatives like "as a result" or "consequently" for variety.

What's the difference between "then we could" and "so we could"?

"Then we could" indicates a sequence where one action enables another, while "so we could" implies purpose or intention. For example, "If we finish early, then we could leave" (sequence) versus "We worked hard so we could leave early" (purpose).