to be then

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The phrase "to be then" is not grammatically correct and is not usable in written English.
If you wanted to express a sequence of events, you could use the expression "to be next" instead, for example: "First, I will do the dishes, then mow the lawn, to be next."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was meant to be, then," I said.

The New York Times

If it's meant to be, then hey, now's the time.

The New York Times - Sports

What would he have wanted to be then?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And if my time isn't where it needs to be, then I fail.

The New York Times

And when it turns out not to be, then maybe Britain can really talk about reform.

The Economist

"We don't know how badly the economy is going to be then.

Independent

The question for Republicans, Democrats, all of us, is where we're going to be then.

The New Yorker

If it's not to be then good luck to the guys who do play.

The Guardian - Sport

For that to be then turned into a story about doping?

The Guardian - Sport

If this is the way it has to be, then so be it".

The Guardian - Music

What a disappointment its follow-up turns out to be, then.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to express a sequence of events, replace "to be then" with more precise alternatives like "to be next", "to be afterward", or "subsequently" to ensure clarity and grammatical accuracy.

Common error

Avoid stringing together multiple clauses using "to be then" as it often leads to convoluted and confusing sentence structures. Break down complex sentences into simpler, more direct statements for better readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be then" frequently serves as a connector indicating a sequence or consequence. Despite its common occurrence, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable. The phrase often appears in conditional statements or to suggest a subsequent action or state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "to be then" appears frequently across various sources, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable, suggesting that it is not ideal for formal writing. It primarily functions as a connector indicating sequence or consequence. To enhance clarity and grammatical correctness, consider using alternatives such as "to be next", "to be afterward", or "to be subsequently". When aiming for precise and clear communication, especially in formal contexts, carefully consider whether "to be then" is the most effective choice. Remember, clarity trumps commonality in effective writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be next

Replaces "then" with "next" for clearer chronological sequence.

to be afterward

Emphasizes the subsequent nature of the action.

to be later

Indicates a time frame following a previous event.

to be subsequently

Conveys a formal sequence of actions or events.

to be thereafter

Similar to 'afterward', but often implies a more distant time frame.

to be consequently

Focuses on the result or outcome of the previous event.

to be therefore

Highlights the logical conclusion or result.

to be thus

Presents the manner or way something will be.

to become next

Focuses on the change into something at a subsequent time.

to be in that moment

Specifies the exact time something will occur.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "to be then"?

You can use alternatives like "to be next", "to be afterward", or "to be subsequently" depending on the context.

How can I improve a sentence that uses "to be then"?

Rephrase the sentence to clearly indicate sequence or consequence. For example, instead of "If this happens to be, then...", try "If this happens, the next step is...". Using more direct language will make your writing clearer.

Is "to be then" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, "to be then" is often grammatically awkward. It's advisable to use clearer alternatives to ensure proper grammar and readability.

What is the difference between "to be then" and "to be later"?

"To be then" implies a general sequence, while "to be later" specifically indicates a point in time following a previous event. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended meaning.