we can then

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can then" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when introducing a conclusion to a sequence of events or ideas. For example: "We discussed the issue at length and concluded that, moving forward, we should implement the new policy. We can then review the progress in six months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can then network amongst ourselves".

The Guardian

We can then set aside land for tigers.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We can then ask questions like: Why is it there?

The New York Times - Sports

If we can then things are looking good".

The Guardian - Sport

We can then target our advertising based on this information.

The Guardian

We can then begin where we all began, with children.

The Guardian - Opinion

Of course, if we want, we can then follow it.

Independent

We can then carry out the analysis in the frequency domain.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We can then ask how the standard evangelical anti-universalist objections stand up against it.

Yale University

We can then ask, is that region sufficient for representing spatial layout?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We can then define a narrower spectral extraction region that yields higher S/N.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can then" to clearly indicate the logical sequence of steps or actions in your writing. This helps readers follow your reasoning and understand the order in which events or decisions unfold.

Common error

Avoid using "we can then" too frequently in a single paragraph or section. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Consider varying your sentence structure and using alternative transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can then" primarily functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it introduces a subsequent action or conclusion that logically follows a previous statement. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in connecting ideas and outlining steps in a process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

32%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"We can then" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a sequential or logical progression. According to Ludwig AI, it functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, primarily serving to connect ideas and outline steps in a process. Its usage spans various contexts, including news, academia, and science, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While highly versatile, overuse should be avoided to maintain writing impact. Related phrases offer alternatives to express similar sequential relationships. Understanding its function and context, writers can effectively employ "we can then" to enhance clarity and coherence in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

once that's done, we're able to

Specifies completion of a prior step before proceeding.

subsequently we are able to

Replaces a direct continuation with a slightly more formal tone and emphasis on ability.

afterward, we're capable of

Replaces "then" with a direct temporal marker and focuses on capability.

following that, we're in a position to

This version emphasizes the change in status enabling the next action.

in light of that, we're in a position to

Introduces the subsequent action as a logical consequence of the previous state.

next, we have the opportunity to

Shifts focus to an opportunity arising from the previous action.

with that accomplished, we're free to

Emphasizes freedom or lack of constraint after the prior action.

thereupon we have the option to

Introduces a more formal and somewhat archaic tone, focusing on the availability of a choice.

that being the case, we're allowed to

This version emphasizes allowance after the case.

at that point, we're permitted to

Highlights permission or allowance as a result of the preceding action.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "we can then" in a sentence?

Use "we can then" to introduce a logical next step or a conclusion that follows from a previous statement. For example: "After analyzing the data, "we can then" draw some conclusions."

What are some alternatives to "we can then"?

Alternatives include phrases like "subsequently", "after that", "thereafter", or "as a result", depending on the context. Choose the phrase that best fits the flow of your writing.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "we can then"?

While it's grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "we can then" might sound slightly informal or abrupt. Consider varying your sentence structure to improve readability.

What's the difference between "we can then" and "we can therefore"?

"We can then" indicates a sequence of actions or logical steps, while "we can therefore" emphasizes a conclusion or consequence. "We can then" shows what follows, and "we can therefore" explains why something follows. If you are showing a cause-and-effect relationship, you may consider "we can therefore".