then which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'then which' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a choice between two or more options. For example, "I have two books; a fantasy novel, then which do you prefer, a mystery or a romance?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No single answer, then, which feels right.

The New Yorker

The question is, then, which one?

The New York Times - Tech

Then: "which maybe described cannibalism in general".

The New York Times - Books

So then which is it?

The New York Times - Style

"And then?" "Which will lead to more aggressive-type behaviors".

The New Yorker

"We were second to every ball then, which was disappointing.

Independent

Then which are the pit bulls that get into trouble?

The New Yorker

An hour, then, which should see them 400 ahead.

The Guardian - Sport

The fact remains: if not these players then which?

The Guardian - Sport

We were calling it 'The Devil Inside' then, which I still think is a better title".

The New Yorker

Not one that X-Factor wannabes will be covering, then, which has to be a recommendation.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context makes the sequence implied by "then" clear. The prior statement should logically lead to the choice being presented.

Common error

Avoid using "then which" when there isn't a clear sequential or conditional relationship between the clauses. Using it out of context can make your writing seem disjointed and confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then which" functions as an interrogative conjunction, linking a prior statement or condition to a subsequent question or choice. It serves to transition the discussion towards a decision or selection, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then which" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a choice or question following a condition or statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in News & Media and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral register. While versatile, ensure a clear sequential relationship for effective communication. Common alternatives include phrases such as "in that case which" and "so which". Overall, "then which" serves as a useful tool for prompting decisions and clarifying options, as long as it's employed in a logically coherent manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

given that which

Presents a premise before the selection.

in which case which

Explicitly states the condition under which the choice is relevant.

and if so which

Similar to "if so which" but connecting to a previous statement

in that case which

Specifies a condition that leads to a choice.

so then which

Emphasizes a conclusion before presenting a choice.

consequently which

Draws a direct causal relationship before presenting the choice.

that being said which

Introduces a contrast before offering a selection.

if so which

Highlights the conditional aspect of the choice.

following that which

Indicates a sequence of events leading to a choice.

under those circumstances which

Sets a specific scenario influencing the choice.

FAQs

How do I use "then which" in a sentence?

Use "then which" to introduce a question or choice that logically follows a previous statement or condition. For example, "If that's the case, then which option do you prefer?"

What are some alternatives to "then which"?

Alternatives include "in that case, which", "so which", or "if so, which", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis. See also: "in that case which".

Is "then which" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "then which" can sometimes sound slightly informal. For highly formal contexts, consider using more precise and elaborate phrasing to ensure clarity and maintain a professional tone.

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

"Then which" implies a sequence or consequence before the choice, whereas "which then" simply asks a question after a statement, without necessarily implying a direct causal link. The former is far more common.