but then

conjunction
UK: /bʌt ðen/
US: /bʌt ðɛn/

  1. Used to introduce something that contrasts with or follows what has just been said.

    1. I wanted to go, but then I remembered I had work. [ ] [ ]
    2. He seemed okay, but then he suddenly started crying, and I didn't know what to do. [ ] [ ]

  2. Used to introduce a thought that is slightly different or surprising in relation to something you have just said.

    1. It's a good idea, but then again, it might be too expensive. [ ] [ ]
    2. We could go to the beach, but then it might rain, so let's consider another option. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

still yet however even so nevertheless
but then adverb

  1. Indicates a change of mind or a realization after some time or event.

    1. I didn't want to go. But then, I met you there. [ ] [ ]
    2. She said no at first, but then, after thinking about it, agreed to help. [ ] [ ]
but then preposition

  1. Used to imply a consequence or result based on a previous action or statement.

    1. If it rains, but then only a little, we can still go. [ ] [ ]
    2. Even if we win, but then what? We still need to find new funding for next year. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "but then" in English means: Used to introduce something that contrasts with or follows what has just been said., Used to introduce a thought that is slightly different or surprising in relation to something you have just said..

The phonetic transcription of "but then" is /bʌt ðen/ in British English and /bʌt ðɛn/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "but then": still, yet, however, even so, nevertheless.

Example usage of "but then": "I wanted to go, but then I remembered I had work.". More examples on the page.