then you try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "then you try" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest that someone should attempt something after a previous action or statement. Example: "If you don't succeed on your first attempt, then you try again until you get it right."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And then you try again.

The New York Times

Then you try to be more.

The New York Times - Sports

Then you try and donate it.

The Guardian

And then you try to do it".

The New York Times

Then you try to get 20, and then you try to go on TV, in theory.

The Guardian

But then, you try explaining that to a racist.

Independent

Then you try and add on, a balance, some homegrown".

The New York Times

They give you feedback and then you try to improve.

The Guardian - Money

"Then you try and apply pressure that way.

The New York Times - Sports

Then you try to find out the raw material and the competencies.

The New York Times

He's the friend-zone guy, and then you try to date his best friend".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "then you try" to clearly indicate a sequence of actions, especially when outlining steps in a process or explaining a cause-and-effect relationship. For instance, 'If the initial approach fails, then you try a different strategy.'

Common error

Avoid using "then you try" as a direct instruction without proper context. It's better to say, 'Try this approach next' rather than assuming the listener knows what prior action has occurred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "then you try" functions as a sequential connector, linking a prior action or event to a subsequent attempt or action. Ludwig AI finds many instances of this usage, indicating its common role in outlining processes or explaining steps. It is useful in providing instructions or describing cause-and-effect relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "then you try" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to denote a sequential action or attempt, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its neutral tone and high frequency, especially in news and media contexts, make it suitable for a wide range of writing styles. For more formal settings, alternatives like "subsequently you attempt" can be considered, while simpler options like "next you try" work well in informal contexts. Remember to use "then you try" to clearly guide your reader through a sequence, and avoid misuse as direct instructions without context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

next you attempt

Replaces "try" with "attempt" and "then" with "next", emphasizing the order of events.

after that, you try

Adds a transitional phrase for clarity and slightly increases formality.

subsequently, you try

Uses a more formal adverb to indicate the sequence of actions.

afterward, you attempt

Combines a formal adverb with a synonym for "try", creating a more sophisticated tone.

later, give it a shot

Uses a more casual phrase instead of "try", indicating an informal attempt.

following that, give it a shot

Combines formality and informality to indicate the sequence of actions.

thereafter, endeavor

Employs highly formal vocabulary for both the sequential marker and the action.

thereupon, make an effort

Utilizes archaic and formal terms to convey the sequence and attempt.

there, you proceed to try

Uses "there" to introduce a point in a process, and "proceed to try" in order to mean try

at that point, you have a shot

Uses "at that point" to refer to time, and have a shot to define action

FAQs

How can I rephrase "then you try" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "subsequently you attempt" or "thereafter you endeavor", which provide a more sophisticated and structured flow to your writing.

What's a simpler way to say "then you try"?

You can use simpler alternatives like "next you try" or "after that you try" to maintain clarity without adding unnecessary complexity.

Is it always necessary to include 'then' in "then you try"?

No, the "then" can sometimes be omitted if the sequence is already clear. For example, "You fail, you try again" is acceptable but less explicit than "If you fail, then you try again."

How does the meaning change if I use 'but' instead of 'then' in "then you try"?

Using 'but you try' introduces a sense of contrast or contradiction. Instead of indicating a sequence, it suggests an attempt despite an obstacle. Example: 'The task was difficult, but you try anyway'.