where then

USAGE SUMMARY

'where then' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is usually used to introduce a new idea or to draw a conclusion. For example: "He wasn't able to fix the problem on his own, so where then do we turn for help?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Where, then, are we headed?

The New York Times - Arts

Where, then, is the controversy?

The New Yorker

Where then are we?

The Guardian - Opinion

Where, then, the pleasure?

The Guardian - Film

Where, then, to start the list?

The New York Times - Books

Where, then, does this leave us?

The New Yorker

Where then do we stand?

Princeton University

Where, then, are the manifestations?

The New Yorker

Where, then, are his roots?

The Guardian - Music

Where, then, should Mubarak go?

The Guardian - Opinion

Where, then, did Gregory's Christianity come from?

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "where then" to smoothly transition between ideas, especially when introducing a question or conclusion based on previous information. It helps maintain a logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "where then" when a simple "where" question is sufficient. "Where then" implies a more complex inquiry, often involving a sequence of events or reasoning, rather than a straightforward request for location.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "where then" primarily functions as an interrogative adverbial phrase used to introduce a question that logically follows a preceding statement or situation. It signals a consequential inquiry, often implying a deeper investigation beyond a simple location.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "where then" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a question or conclusion that follows logically from previous information. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable part of English sentences. It is grammatically sound and commonly found in various contexts, ranging from news and media to science and academia. When using this phrase, ensure that it indeed serves as a logical continuation or inquiry stemming from the prior context. The sources used as examples are authoritative, solidifying the reliability of this analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in that case

Focuses more on the conditional aspect, implying a consequence based on a preceding statement.

so what follows

Emphasizes the logical progression or the next step in reasoning.

where does that lead

Indicates a question about the consequences or implications of a situation.

what's the next step

Directly asks for the subsequent action or stage, shifting from location to action.

what's the implication

Focuses specifically on the result or inference that can be drawn.

given that, where

Highlights the premise before posing a question about location.

what does that suggest

Draws attention to the suggestive nature of the current information.

in which direction

Specifies the need for directional guidance.

how should we proceed

Implies more about the method to carry on.

towards what end

Shifts the focus from location to the ultimate goal or purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "where then" in a sentence?

Use "where then" to introduce a question that logically follows from previous statements or circumstances. For example, "If the key isn't in the drawer, "where then" could it be?"

What phrases are similar in meaning to "where then"?

Similar phrases include "in that case", "so what follows", or "what's the next step", depending on the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "where then"?

Yes, it would be incorrect if you are simply asking for a location without any prior context. A simple "where" would suffice in those cases.

What is the difference between "where then" and "where is"?

"Where is" directly asks for a location. "Where then" implies a more complex inquiry that is linked to previous information or events. "Where is" is a simple question, while ""where then"" introduces a follow-up question based on previous information.