they then use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they then use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sequence of actions where a subject employs something after a previous step. Example: "After gathering the necessary data, they then use it to create a comprehensive report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

They then use an included pick to "strum" the guitar.

Cornell University

They then use acids to etch away the copper.

The New Yorker

They then use it to describe homogeneous cosmologies in considerable detail.

Princeton University

They then use their guidelines to write their own reviews of favorite Web sites.

The New York Times

They then use an algorithm to see how these words are clustered.

MIT Technology Review

They then use a set of strategies to read from this large memory quickly.

MIT Technology Review

They then use the EES model to design their course layer by layer, including objects from each layer.

Computers & Education

They then use the drums in musical rituals and special functions such as weddings, engagements and births.

Princeton University

They then use those qualities as criteria by which to judge an in-class political debate on education.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

They then use the materials they have created and what they have learned so far to run a mock election.

The New York Times

They then use this information to help better shape their education campaign.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they then use", ensure the preceding action is clearly defined to maintain a logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring the "they" refers to a specific, previously mentioned group or entity. Otherwise, the sentence can become confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they then use" functions as a sequential connector, indicating that an action (using something) occurs after a preceding action. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they then use" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that serves as a sequential connector, indicating that an action follows a previous one. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase appears in various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives like "they subsequently utilize" can be used to elevate the writing style. To ensure clarity, the antecedent of "they" should be clearly defined, and overusing the phrase can be avoided by employing synonyms and varying sentence structure. Therefore, understanding how to use and vary this phrase correctly, you can make your sentences more articulate and clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subsequently they use

Adds a slightly more formal tone by using "subsequently" instead of "then".

thereafter they use

Similar to "subsequently", offering a formal alternative to "then".

following that, they use

Replaces "then" with a more explicit transitional phrase.

afterward they use

A synonym for "then" that slightly alters the flow.

next, they use

A simple and direct way to indicate the sequence of actions.

they proceed to use

Emphasizes the continuation of the action in a more formal manner.

they utilize

Replaces "use" with a more formal synonym, while keeping the sequence implicit.

they employ

Similar to "utilize", offering a formal alternative to "use".

they resort to using

Indicates that the use is a solution or a necessity.

they make use of

A more descriptive way of saying "they use", which can sometimes add emphasis.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "they then use" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can replace "they then use" with phrases like "they subsequently utilize" or "they thereafter employ". These alternatives add a level of sophistication to your writing.

Is there a difference between "they then use" and "they use"?

Yes, "they then use" implies a sequence of actions, suggesting that the use is happening after something else. "They use" simply states that they are using something, without specifying the timing or sequence. Try substituting with phrases like "they subsequently use" or "they thereafter employ".

What are some common synonyms for "use" in the phrase "they then use"?

Common synonyms for "use" in this context include "employ", "utilize", and "apply". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. See also "they proceed to use".

How can I avoid overusing the phrase "they then use" in my writing?

To avoid repetition, vary your sentence structure and use different transitional phrases to indicate sequence, such as "after that", "subsequently", or "following this". You might want to try "following that they use".