Then

Definition

Then is an adverb indicating a point in time, a sequence of events, or a consequence. It can also function as an adjective or noun in specific contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ðɛn/
• Respelling: THEN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ðɛn/
• Respelling: THEN

Etymology

The word "then" originates from Old English "þænne" or "þonne," meaning "at that time" or "in that case." It is related to Old Saxon "thanna" and Old High German "dann," all derived from the Proto-Germanic "*thana," meaning "at that time."

Derivatives

• Thence (adverb)
• Thereupon (adverb)
• Then-acting (adjective)
• Then-existing (adjective)
• Then-and-there (phrase)

Synonyms

• Next
• Afterward
• Subsequently

Antonyms

• Now
• Before
• Previously

Usage

The adverb "then" is commonly used to denote time, sequence, or result. For example, "I will study, and then I will go to bed." It can also emphasize a condition: "If you are ready, then we can start."

Related Terms

• Than: A conjunction used for comparisons, often confused with "then."
• Thereafter: Indicates what follows in time or sequence.
• Hence: Refers to something from that time forward.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• At that time: Refers to a specific moment in the past or future.
  • Example: "I was in college then."
• Next in time or order: Indicates the subsequent event in a sequence.
  • Example: "Finish your homework, and then you can play."
• As a result or consequence: Denotes a logical outcome or reaction.
  • Example: "If you don’t study, then you won’t pass."

Adjective

• Referring to a particular time: Describes something that existed or occurred at a specific time.
  • Example: "The then president made the decision."

Noun

• A specific time or moment: Refers to a point in time previously mentioned or understood.
  • Example: "We’ll wait until then to decide."