Can You Start a Sentence With Then? Key Insights!

Can You Start a Sentence With Then? Yes, starting a sentence with “then” is acceptable in writing. Many writers use this transitional word to indicate a sequence of events or actions.

It can help improve the flow of your sentences and make your writing more engaging.

Let’s explore the guidelines and best practices for using “then” at the beginning of a sentence.

Can You Start a Sentence With Then?

Yes, you absolutely can start a sentence with “then”! Here’s the breakdown:

• Grammatically correct: There’s no rule against it.
• Function: “Then” typically shows a sequence of events or a cause-and-effect relationship. Placing it at the beginning emphasizes the connection to the previous sentence.

Here are some examples:

• Sequence: “We finished dinner. Then, we played a board game.”
• Cause and Effect: “It started to rain heavily. Then, the power went out.”

History of Starting Sentences with ‘Then’:

• Old English: In Old English, the word “then” was commonly used at the beginning of sentences to indicate a sequence of events.
• Middle English: During the Middle English period, starting sentences with “then” continued to be prevalent in literary works and everyday communication.
• Shakespearean Era: Playwrights like William Shakespeare frequently began sentences with “then” for dramatic effect and clarity.
• Modern Usage: In modern English, starting a sentence with “then” is widely accepted in informal writing but may not always be preferred in formal contexts.

Time Period	Sentence Starters
Old English	Often started with “then”
Middle English	Continued trend of using “then”
Shakespearean	Used for dramatic impact

Grammar Rules for Using ‘Then’ at the Beginning of a Sentence:

Use “Then” to Indicate Time Sequence: Example: “Then, we went to the store.”

Avoid Overusing “Then”: While starting a sentence with “then” is grammatically correct, it’s best not to overuse it as it can make your writing seem repetitive.

Consider Alternatives: Instead of repeatedly using “then,” try varying your sentence structure by using other transitional words like “next,” “subsequently,” or simply rephrasing the sentence altogether.

Maintain Clarity and Flow: Starting a sentence with “then” can sometimes disrupt the flow of your writing if used excessively. Ensure that each instance adds value and clarity to your narrative.

Check for Contextual Appropriateness: Assess whether beginning a sentence with “then” fits well within the context of your writing style and overall message.

When to Use Then:

There are three main ways to use “then” in a sentence:

To indicate time:

This is the most common use of “then.” It refers to a specific point in the past, present, or future.

• Past: “We used to play outside all the time back then.”
• Present: “The meeting starts at 2 pm, but I’ll be there before then.”
• Future: “Wait here until then.” (Here, “then” refers to an unspecified time in the future)

To show sequence:

“Then” is used to connect events and show the order in which they happen.

• “I woke up early, then I showered, got dressed, and ate breakfast.”
• “Turn left at the light, then take the second exit on the right.”

To introduce a consequence:

“Then” can be used to show the result of something that happened earlier.

• “He studied hard, then he aced the exam.”
• “If it rains, then the picnic will be cancelled.” (In this case, “then” connects the condition “if it rains” to the consequence “the picnic will be cancelled”)

Common Mistakes When Starting Sentences with ‘Then’:

Overusing ‘Then’ at the Beginning of Sentences

• Using ‘then’ excessively can make your writing repetitive and monotonous.
• Try varying your sentence structure to avoid this issue.

Weak Sentence Connections

• Starting sentences with ‘then’ may result in weak connections between ideas.
• Ensure that each sentence flows logically from the previous one.

Lack of Clarity

• Beginning a sentence with ‘then’ without proper context can confuse readers.
• Clearly establish the relationship between consecutive sentences for better understanding.

Interrupted Flow

• Placing ‘then’ at the start of a sentence can disrupt the flow of your writing.
• Consider alternative transitions or reordering your ideas to maintain coherence.

Ineffective Transitions

Without “Then”	With “Then”
First,	First, then
Next,	Next, then

Creative Writing Tips: Using ‘Then’ Effectively:

• Sequential Order: When using “then” in your writing, it can help to convey a sense of chronological order. This is especially useful when describing a series of events or steps that need to be followed.
• Transition Between Ideas: Utilize “then” as a transition word to smoothly connect different ideas within your writing. It helps readers understand the flow between sentences and paragraphs.
• Avoid Overusing: While “then” can be beneficial, overusing it may make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. Use it strategically where necessary.
• Combine with Other Words: Experiment with combining “then” with other transitional words like ‘subsequently,’ ‘next,’ or ‘afterward.’ This variation adds depth and complexity to your writing style.
• Enhance Clarity: Incorporating “then” appropriately can enhance the clarity of your writing by clearly stating the sequence of events or actions taking place.
• Dialogue Tags: In dialogues, using “then” after spoken lines can indicate what action follows the speech, providing a clear picture for readers about who is speaking and acting next.
• Action Sequences: For action-packed scenes in creative writing, employing “then” effectively can create a fast-paced rhythm that engages readers and propels them through the narrative seamlessly.