Yes, you can start a sentence with “then.” There is no general grammar rule that prevents you from beginning a sentence with this word. In fact, “then” often works naturally as a transition that shows sequence, time, or a result.
For example:
Then, we reviewed the final proposal.
You can also write:
Then we reviewed the final proposal.
Both versions can be correct. The comma depends on the role and rhythm of “then” in the sentence.
People often search “can you start a sentence with then” because they may have heard that starting a sentence with conjunctions or transition words is incorrect. In professional writing, however, sentence openings should focus on clarity, flow, and context, not outdated rules.
This guide explains how to use “then” correctly in emails, workplace communication, academic writing, client messages, and everyday English. It also provides professional alternatives when you want a more polished or formal transition.
Can You Start a Sentence With “Then”?
Yes. You can start a sentence with “then.”
“Then” commonly acts as an adverb. It can indicate:
- The next action
- A later point in time
- A consequence
- A sequence of events
- A transition from one idea to another
Examples
- Then, we discussed the budget.
- Then we moved on to the next topic.
- Then, the client approved the proposal.
- Then came the most important part of the meeting.
- Then you can submit the completed form.
Starting a sentence with “then” does not automatically make the sentence informal or grammatically incorrect.
The simple rule
If “then” clearly connects the new sentence to what came before, you can use it at the beginning.
Example:
We completed the initial review. Then, we sent the report to the client.
The word tells the reader what happened next.
What Does “Then” Mean?
Literal Meaning
The word “then” usually refers to a time, sequence, or result.
1. Sequence
It can mean “next” or “after that.”
We checked the figures. Then, we prepared the report.
2. Time
It can refer to a particular point in the past or future.
Then, I worked for a small consulting firm.
3. Result or consequence
It can introduce a consequence.
If the figures are accurate, then we can approve the proposal.
4. Transition
It can move the reader from one stage to another.
Then, we considered the available options.
What Tone Does “Then” Have?
“Then” has a neutral tone. It works in casual conversation, workplace communication, and many professional documents.
However, its effect depends on the sentence.
Casual
We can grab lunch, then talk about the project.
Professional
Then, we reviewed the proposed timeline.
More formal
Subsequently, we reviewed the proposed timeline.
The last example sounds more formal, but it does not necessarily sound better. In many business emails, “then” is clearer and more natural than “subsequently.”
When Should You Start a Sentence With “Then”?
1. In Emails
Starting a sentence with “then” can work well when you describe a process or sequence.
We will review the documents today. Then, we will send our comments to your team.
This is direct and easy to understand.
For a more formal business email, you might write:
We will review the documents today. Following the review, we will send our comments to your team.
Both versions work. Choose based on the desired level of formality.
2. In Workplace Communication
“Then” works naturally when explaining procedures.
First, complete the application. Then, submit it to HR.
This style is especially useful for instructions because the sequence remains obvious.
3. With Clients
You can use “then” with clients when the communication is straightforward and conversational.
We will confirm the specifications first. Then, we can finalize the quotation.
For a highly formal client communication, consider:
Once we confirm the specifications, we can proceed with the quotation.
This version sounds slightly more polished.
4. In Networking
“Then” is perfectly acceptable in friendly professional networking.
It was great speaking with you at the conference. Then, we discussed several opportunities for collaboration.
However, if you are describing a past interaction, “afterward” or “following our conversation” may sound smoother.
5. In Customer Service
“Then” can make instructions easier for customers to follow.
Please restart the application. Then, try signing in again.
This is usually preferable to an unnecessarily complicated formal construction.
30 Professional Alternatives to “Then”
There is no single synonym for “then” that works in every sentence. The best alternative depends on whether you mean next, afterward, later, as a result, or at that point.
Professional Alternatives
1. Next
Tone: Professional and direct
Best use: Instructions and processes
Next, we will review the final requirements.
“Next” is one of the clearest alternatives to “then.”
2. After That
Tone: Neutral and conversational
Best use: Emails and workplace communication
We completed the review. After that, we contacted the client.
This is especially useful when you want a natural business email phrase.
3. Following That
Tone: Professional
Best use: Business communication
Following that, we prepared the final report.
It works well when one action directly follows another.
4. Subsequently
Tone: Formal
Best use: Reports, formal correspondence, and academic writing
Subsequently, the committee approved the recommendation.
This is a strong formal alternative to “then,” although it can sound too formal in casual emails.
5. Afterwards
Tone: Neutral to professional
Best use: Describing a later action
Afterwards, we discussed the remaining concerns.
“Afterward” is also common in American English.
6. Thereafter
Tone: Very formal
Best use: Contracts, policies, legal or official documents
Thereafter, the parties will review the agreement annually.
Avoid using it in ordinary emails unless the context calls for formal language.
7. At That Point
Tone: Professional and explanatory
Best use: Describing a specific stage
At that point, we had enough information to make a decision.
8. From There
Tone: Friendly professional
Best use: Meetings, projects, and planning
From there, we can move toward implementation.
This sounds natural in workplace communication.
9. Once That Is Complete
Tone: Professional
Best use: Instructions and procedures
Once that is complete, please send the documents to our team.
10. Once This Is Done
Tone: Professional and practical
Best use: Emails and instructions
Once this is done, we can schedule the next meeting.
Formal Alternatives
11. Subsequently
Subsequently, the organization revised its policy.
12. Thereafter
Thereafter, all requests must follow the revised procedure.
13. Following This
Following this, we will conduct a final review.
14. Following the Meeting
Following the meeting, we circulated the agreed action points.
15. At a Later Stage
At a later stage, we can revisit the proposal.
16. At That Stage
At that stage, we will have sufficient data to proceed.
Formal transitions work best when you genuinely need a formal tone. Using words such as “thereafter” in every email can make your writing sound unnecessarily stiff.
Friendly Alternatives
17. Next
Next, let’s look at the timeline.
18. After That
After that, we can discuss the remaining details.
19. From There
From there, we can decide how to proceed.
20. Once That’s Done
Once that’s done, we’ll move on to the next step.
21. Afterward
Afterward, we can catch up with the team.
22. Later
Later, we can review the other options.
These choices work particularly well in friendly workplace communication and internal messages.
Email-Ready Alternatives
23. Moving Forward
Tone: Professional
Best use: Future actions
Moving forward, we will use the updated process.
24. Following Our Discussion
Tone: Professional
Best use: Follow-up emails
Following our discussion, I have attached the revised proposal.
25. As a Next Step
Tone: Professional
Best use: Project communication
As a next step, we recommend scheduling a technical review.
26. Once We Have Confirmation
Tone: Professional
Best use: Client emails
Once we have confirmation, we can proceed with the order.
27. After Reviewing the Information
Tone: Professional
Best use: Decisions and follow-ups
After reviewing the information, we will provide our recommendation.
28. At That Time
Tone: Neutral/formal
Best use: Referring to a specific point in time
At that time, we can determine whether further action is necessary.
29. In the Next Step
Tone: Professional
Best use: Process explanations
In the next step, we will verify the submitted information.
30. Once This Stage Is Complete
Tone: Formal professional
Best use: Projects and procedures
Once this stage is complete, we can begin implementation.
Quick Comparison Table
| Alternative | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Then | Neutral | General sequencing |
| Next | Professional | Instructions |
| After that | Friendly | Emails and conversation |
| Following that | Professional | Business communication |
| Subsequently | Formal | Reports |
| Afterwards | Neutral | Later actions |
| Thereafter | Very formal | Policies and contracts |
| At that point | Professional | Specific stages |
| From there | Friendly professional | Projects |
| Moving forward | Professional | Future plans |
| As a next step | Professional | Business emails |
| Following our discussion | Professional | Follow-up emails |
| Once that is complete | Professional | Instructions |
| At a later stage | Formal | Long-term plans |
| After reviewing the information | Professional | Decisions |
Email Examples Using “Then” and Alternatives
Client Email
Using “then”:
We will review the specifications and confirm the final requirements. Then, we will send you the updated quotation.
Alternative:
We will review the specifications and confirm the final requirements. Following the review, we will send you the updated quotation.
The second version sounds slightly more formal.
Manager Email
I have completed the initial analysis. Then, I reviewed the figures against last quarter’s results.
A smoother professional version could be:
I completed the initial analysis and subsequently reviewed the figures against last quarter’s results.
Colleague Message
Let’s finish the presentation first. Then, we can review the slides together.
This is perfectly natural for workplace communication.
Customer Service Email
Please reset your password first. Then, try signing in again.
Here, “then” is actually preferable because the customer needs a simple sequence.
Networking Follow-Up
It was a pleasure meeting you at the event. Following our conversation, I wanted to share the information we discussed.
This sounds more polished than:
It was a pleasure meeting you. Then, I wanted to share the information.
In this situation, “then” does not communicate the intended relationship as clearly.
Meeting Follow-Up
We discussed the proposed timeline during today’s meeting. Next, we will confirm the responsibilities for each phase.
This is a strong business email phrase because “next” clearly signals the action that follows.
Common Mistakes When Using “Then”
1. Assuming “Then” Cannot Start a Sentence
This is the most common misconception.
❌ Then, we reviewed the contract.
This is not automatically wrong.
✅ Then, we reviewed the contract.
The sentence can be grammatically correct when “then” functions as a transition or adverb.
2. Using “Then” Too Often
Repeating “then” in every sentence can make writing sound repetitive.
We reviewed the report. Then, we checked the figures. Then, we called the client. Then, we updated the spreadsheet.
Better:
We reviewed the report, checked the figures, contacted the client, and updated the spreadsheet.
Or:
We reviewed the report. Next, we checked the figures. Afterward, we contacted the client and updated the spreadsheet.
3. Choosing an Overly Formal Alternative
Words such as “thereafter” and “subsequently” have legitimate uses, but they can make simple messages sound stiff.
Instead of:
Thereafter, we will contact you.
You might write:
After that, we will contact you.
Clear writing usually beats unnecessarily complicated vocabulary.
4. Using “Then” When You Mean “Therefore”
“Then” and “therefore” can sometimes appear in similar structures, but they are not interchangeable in every context.
If the information is correct, then we can proceed.
Here, “then” expresses a consequence.
For a formal version:
If the information is correct, therefore we can proceed.
This structure is less natural. A better formal sentence is:
If the information is correct, we can therefore proceed.
5. Ignoring Context
The best transition depends on your audience.
For a colleague:
Then, let’s review the numbers.
For a client:
As a next step, we can review the numbers.
For a formal report:
Subsequently, the figures were reviewed.
All three communicate sequence, but they create different impressions.
Related Phrases and Their Meanings
Here are useful expressions related to “then”:
- Next — indicates the following action.Next, we will review the proposal.
- After that — indicates what happens afterward.After that, we contacted the supplier.
- Afterward — refers to a later time.We discussed the issue afterward.
- Following that — introduces the next event.Following that, we prepared the report.
- Subsequently — means afterward in formal writing.Subsequently, the policy changed.
- Thereafter — means from that time onward.Thereafter, the process remained unchanged.
- At that point — refers to a specific stage or moment.At that point, we decided to pause the project.
- From there — indicates the next stage.From there, we moved into implementation.
- Later — refers to a subsequent time.We can discuss the details later.
- Eventually — refers to something that happens after some time.Eventually, the team reached an agreement.
- Once complete — indicates that one task must finish first.Once complete, send the report to me.
- As a next step — introduces a planned action.As a next step, we recommend a follow-up meeting.
- Moving forward — refers to future actions.Moving forward, we will use the new process.
- Following our discussion — connects an action to a previous conversation.Following our discussion, I have attached the revised document.
- At a later stage — indicates a future point in a process.We can address this at a later stage.
- In turn — indicates a resulting or corresponding action.This change will, in turn, improve efficiency.
- As a result — indicates a consequence.As a result, we adjusted the schedule.
- Therefore — indicates a logical conclusion.Therefore, we recommend proceeding with option B.
“Then” vs. Professional Alternatives
| Phrase | Formality | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Then | Low–medium | Neutral | General writing |
| Next | Medium | Clear | Instructions |
| After that | Low–medium | Natural | Conversation/email |
| Following that | Medium | Polished | Business emails |
| Subsequently | High | Formal | Reports |
| Thereafter | Very high | Official | Legal/policy writing |
| Afterwards | Medium | Natural | General professional writing |
| At that point | Medium | Explanatory | Decisions |
| From there | Medium | Conversational | Projects |
| As a next step | Medium–high | Professional | Business emails |
| Moving forward | Medium–high | Corporate | Future plans |
| Therefore | High | Logical | Conclusions |
| As a result | Medium–high | Analytical | Consequences |
The key point is that these expressions are not perfect synonyms. “Then” can describe sequence, time, or consequence, while words such as “therefore” mainly express a conclusion.
Cultural and Professional Usage
US English
In American English, “then” is completely normal at the beginning of a sentence.
Then, we moved to the next item on the agenda.
“Afterward,” “next,” and “after that” are also common.
UK English
British English also freely uses “then” at the beginning of sentences.
Then, we considered the other options.
“Afterwards” is particularly common in British English, although “afterward” also appears.
Corporate Communication
In corporate writing, clarity usually matters more than replacing simple words with complex ones.
Compare:
Then, we will review the results.
with:
Subsequently, we shall undertake a review of the aforementioned results.
The second sentence sounds unnecessarily complicated.
For most workplace communication, the first sentence is stronger.
Customer Service
Customer-facing communication should usually prioritize clarity.
Then, click “Continue.”
is often better than:
Subsequently, proceed by selecting the “Continue” option.
Simple language improves usability.
Networking
Professional networking favors a friendly but polished tone.
Good choices include:
- Next
- After that
- Following our conversation
- From there
- Moving forward
For example:
Following our conversation, I wanted to send you the resource we discussed.
This sounds professional without becoming stiff.
Is It Professional to Start a Sentence With “Then”?
Yes. Starting a sentence with “then” is professional when it clearly communicates sequence, timing, or consequence.
For example:
We will complete the review by Friday. Then, we will share our recommendations.
This sentence works well in a business email.
However, if you use “then” repeatedly, your writing may become less polished. In those cases, vary your transitions with words such as next, afterward, following that, subsequently, or as a next step.
Should You Put a Comma After “Then”?
A comma after introductory “then” can be appropriate, especially when “then” works as a transition.
Then, we reviewed the proposal.
However, a comma is not always necessary.
Then we reviewed the proposal.
Both forms can be acceptable depending on the sentence structure and intended rhythm.
When “then” appears inside a conditional structure, you normally do not add a comma simply because “then” appears.
If the figures are accurate, then we can proceed.
The safest approach in professional writing is to follow the structure of the sentence rather than treating every opening “then” as requiring a comma.
FAQs
1. Can you start a sentence with “then”?
Yes. “Then” can begin a sentence when it functions as an adverb or transition.
Then, we moved to the next topic.
2. Is starting a sentence with “then” grammatically correct?
Yes. There is no general grammar rule that prohibits starting a sentence with “then.”
3. Is “then” formal or informal?
“Then” is neutral. It can work in casual, professional, and formal writing depending on the sentence.
4. What is a professional way to say “then”?
Good professional alternatives include next, following that, afterward, as a next step, following our discussion, and subsequently.
The best option depends on the context.
5. What is a formal alternative to “then”?
Subsequently and thereafter are formal alternatives when “then” means “after that.” However, they should not replace “then” in every situation.
6. Can I start an email sentence with “then”?
Yes. For example:
Then, we can proceed with the next stage.
For a more polished business email, you could write:
As a next step, we can proceed with the next stage.
7. Is “then” acceptable in workplace communication?
Yes. It is especially useful when explaining procedures, timelines, or sequences.
Complete the review. Then, submit your comments.
8. Should “then” always have a comma after it?
No. A comma can be used when “then” serves as an introductory transition, but it is not required in every sentence.
9. What is the best synonym for “then”?
There is no single best synonym. “Next” works well for sequence, “afterward” for later events, “subsequently” for formal writing, and “therefore” when expressing a conclusion.
10. Is “then” too casual for business emails?
Usually, no. “Then” is a normal word in professional communication. Choose a different transition only when the context requires greater formality or greater precision.
Final Summary
Yes, you can start a sentence with “then.” It is grammatically acceptable and often useful for showing sequence, time, or consequence. In professional communication, “then” is usually clear, natural, and appropriate.
For everyday workplace writing, choose “then,” “next,” “after that,” or “from there.” For polished business emails, try “as a next step,” “following that,” or “following our discussion.” For highly formal writing, “subsequently” or “thereafter” may fit better.
The most important rule is simple: choose the transition that communicates your intended relationship clearly. Good professional communication does not require complicated vocabulary. It requires precise, natural, reader-friendly language.
