then what about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'then what about' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a way to introduce a new topic or point of discussion. For example: "We discussed the challenges facing our company, then what about the opportunities?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then what about this?

The New York Times

Then what about Gaza?

The New York Times

And then: what about Wendy?

The New York Times - Arts

So, then, what about them?

The New York Times

Well then, what about Iraq?

The Economist

Well then, what about gay rights?

The New York Times

O.K. — that was then; what about now?

The New York Times

But then what about those nitrites?

The New Yorker

And then: What about those other scenes?

The New Yorker

Then what about China and India?

The New Yorker

All right then: what about the price?

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using “then what about”, ensure the subsequent point is logically connected to the previous one to maintain coherence.

Common error

Avoid using "then what about" to introduce completely unrelated topics. This can disrupt the flow of your writing or conversation and confuse your audience. Keep the new point logically connected to the previous discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then what about" functions as a transitional interrogative phrase. It serves to introduce a related question or topic, typically following a preceding statement. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, which demonstrates its acceptance in language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

19%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then what about" is a versatile phrase used to introduce related questions or topics in a discussion, conversation, or written text. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct. It functions as a transitional interrogative, prompting further consideration of a subject. Its neutral register makes it suitable for a variety of contexts, and authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ it. When using "then what about", ensure a logical connection to the previous point to maintain coherence, and avoid using it to introduce completely unrelated topics. As seen in the examples provided by Ludwig, mastering its usage is essential for a fluent and coherent conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what about then

Reverses the order of the original phrase.

what of then

Uses "of" instead of "about", implying consideration.

how about then

Shifts focus towards suggesting or proposing something.

what's the deal with then

More informal; inquires about a specific aspect.

what is there to say about then

Expresses uncertainty or invites opinion on a related matter.

what's your take on then

Specifically asks for someone's opinion.

where do we stand with then

Focuses on the current situation or progress.

on the subject of then

Formally introduces a new but related topic.

considering then

Sets the stage for a related consideration.

in light of then

Introduces a point related to the previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "then what about" in a sentence?

Use "then what about" to introduce a related but different aspect of the same topic. For instance, "We've discussed the cost of the project, "then what about" the timeline?"

What are some alternatives to "then what about"?

Alternatives include phrases like "what about then", "how about then", or "what of then" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "then what about"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct to start a sentence with "then what about," especially when it follows a previous statement to introduce a related question or topic. However, ensure there's a clear connection between the sentences.

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

"What about" introduces a new topic or question. "Then what about" implies a sequence or continuation from a previous point, adding a sense of logical progression.