Can you start a sentence with the word then

Sometimes, you might find a situation where you put “then” at the start of a sentence. Specific language rules can lead you to question whether or not this is correct. So, in this article, we’ll look into the rules surrounding using “then” at the start of a sentence.

Is It Grammatically Correct To Start A Sentence With “Then”?

Starting a sentence with “then” is grammatically correct. However, you have to include it as the final sentence of a group because “then” indicates a result or consequence. It cannot be the first word in a sentence if it’s starting a new idea or paragraph.

Is There A Comma After “Then” At The Beginning Of A Sentence?

When we use words at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a new idea, we’re usually presented with the need to use a comma to separate the clauses. In many instances, a comma after the word is correct; however, the rules are different for “then.”

We do not need to include a comma after “then” at the beginning of a sentence. It’s used to introduce a resulting idea and flows straight into the sentence. A comma is only needed when the clause has to be broken up (which it doesn’t).

As long as you remember to keep the comma out of the sentence, you’ll always be correct.

Here are a few examples showing you what we mean:

• I couldn’t say anything else to her except “sorry.” Then she left and didn’t return.
• She told me not to worry about it, and I said that it was okay. Then, we parted ways.

As you can see from these examples, we don’t need to include the comma after “then.” You’re better off allowing the sentence to flow smoothly without worrying too much about including it.

Examples Of How To Use “Then” At The Beginning Of A Sentence

So, let’s look at how we can use “then” at the beginning of a sentence. As we’ve previously mentioned, “then” sentences should always come at the end of a group of sentences. For that reason, we always have to have at least one sentence before it for it to be correct.

1. I couldn’t go on any further. Then again, I knew I needed to.
2. We had to end it right then and there. Then it was time for us to move on.
3. She wasn’t the happiest person when we were together, and she told me that. Then we decided it was best if we parted ways.
4. I like to go shopping on Saturdays and treat myself. Then I come home and tuck into a big bowl of ice cream.
5. Is there anything else that she needed to do for you? I don’t think so. Then again, I’ll probably think of something later.

We included sentences here that start with “then.” Sometimes, we might hear the phrase “then again,” which is also used to start a sentence. It’s a similar clause, but it adds something new to the sentence, so a comma is required after we right “again.”

We can follow similar language rules when we include the word “and” at the start of a sentence. It’s a common myth that a sentence can’t start with conjunctions like “and” or “because.” However, this isn’t the case, so let’s explore it.

“And then” can be put at the start of a sentence much like “then” can. It’s used to showcase the resulting effect of the previous sentence. All previous rules should be followed. For the most part, “and” is a redundancy that isn’t needed and doesn’t add further meaning.

Can A Sentence End With “Then”?

Let’s look into ending a sentence with “then.” While it’s okay to start one with it, does that mean we can also end one with it too?

You can end a sentence with “then” when you want to ask someone to repeat an action that was previously taken.

1. You’ll have to go in again then. I missed it.
2. Can we just start from the beginning then? I clearly missed the introduction!
3. What have you been up to lately, then? It’s been so long.
4. We should do it again then. It was fun!