Introduction
Many writers hesitate before starting a sentence with “then.” It often feels informal, incorrect, or grammatically weak—especially in professional or academic writing. But here’s the truth: starting a sentence with “then” is not wrong, as long as it’s used correctly and intentionally.
The real issue isn’t grammar—it’s clarity, tone, and context. In formal writing, “then” can sound vague or conversational if overused. That’s why experienced writers often replace it with more precise, polished alternatives that improve flow, logic, and authority.
In this guide, you’ll learn when it’s appropriate to use “then,” when it’s better to avoid it, and 20 professional alternatives that elevate your writing—complete with meanings, examples, and practical guidance.
When Should You Use These Alternatives?
Choosing whether to start a sentence with “then” (or replace it) depends on formality, audience, and purpose.
Formal Situations
Use refined alternatives in:
- Academic writing
- Business emails
- Reports and proposals
- Legal or technical documents
Semi-Formal Situations
Balanced alternatives work best for:
- Workplace communication
- Client updates
- Professional blogs
- Presentations
Casual Situations
“Then” is usually acceptable in:
- Storytelling
- Informal blogs
- Conversations
- Internal team chats
Situational Examples
- Academic paper: Use “As a result” instead of “Then”
- Business email: Replace “Then” with “Subsequently”
- Narrative writing: “Then” may sound natural and smooth
- Instructions: “Next” or “Following that” improves clarity
20 Professional Alternatives to Starting a Sentence With “Then”
Below are 20 polished alternatives, each with meaning, examples, and explanation.
1. As a result
Meaning: Shows a direct consequence.
Examples:
• As a result, productivity increased significantly.
• As a result, the proposal was approved.
• As a result, the system was updated.
• As a result, the team adjusted its strategy.
• As a result, costs were reduced.
Why it works: Clearly communicates cause and effect.
2. Subsequently
Meaning: Indicates what happened afterward in a formal tone.
Examples:
• Subsequently, the data was reviewed.
• Subsequently, the policy was revised.
• Subsequently, the client responded.
• Subsequently, the process improved.
• Subsequently, approval was granted.
Why it works: Sounds professional and time-specific.
3. Following this
Meaning: Refers directly to a previous action.
Examples:
• Following this, the team met again.
• Following this, changes were implemented.
• Following this, the report was finalized.
• Following this, training began.
• Following this, feedback was collected.
Why it works: Creates logical continuity.
4. Afterward
Meaning: Describes the next event in sequence.
Examples:
• Afterward, the results were analyzed.
• Afterward, adjustments were made.
• Afterward, the meeting concluded.
• Afterward, the system rebooted.
• Afterward, documentation was updated.
Why it works: Neutral and smooth in professional writing.
5. Consequently
Meaning: Emphasizes logical outcome.
Examples:
• Consequently, deadlines were extended.
• Consequently, resources were reallocated.
• Consequently, performance improved.
• Consequently, the plan was revised.
• Consequently, risks were minimized.
Why it works: Strong analytical tone.
6. Next
Meaning: Indicates sequence, often in instructions.
Examples:
• Next, review the documentation.
• Next, submit the application.
• Next, analyze the findings.
• Next, confirm availability.
• Next, proceed with testing.
Why it works: Clear and instructional.
7. At that point
Meaning: Refers to a specific moment in time.
Examples:
• At that point, the decision was final.
• At that point, resources were limited.
• At that point, approval was pending.
• At that point, action was required.
• At that point, progress slowed.
Why it works: Precise and contextual.
8. Thereafter
Meaning: Formal term for “after that.”
Examples:
• Thereafter, monitoring continued.
• Thereafter, updates were issued.
• Thereafter, the agreement took effect.
• Thereafter, progress stabilized.
• Thereafter, responsibilities shifted.
Why it works: Ideal for formal documents.
9. In response
Meaning: Shows reaction to an action or event.
Examples:
• In response, the team revised the plan.
• In response, management intervened.
• In response, changes were approved.
• In response, support was provided.
• In response, policies were updated.
Why it works: Adds intentional clarity.
10. Following that
Meaning: Continues a sequence smoothly.
Examples:
• Following that, testing began.
• Following that, deployment occurred.
• Following that, feedback was gathered.
• Following that, improvements were made.
• Following that, the project concluded.
Why it works: Natural transition without sounding casual.
11. As a consequence
Meaning: Formal cause-effect connector.
Examples:
• As a consequence, delays occurred.
• As a consequence, budgets changed.
• As a consequence, priorities shifted.
• As a consequence, output increased.
• As a consequence, errors decreased.
Why it works: Strong logical signal.
12. From there
Meaning: Narrative or procedural progression.
Examples:
• From there, the process continued.
• From there, the team expanded.
• From there, improvements followed.
• From there, execution began.
• From there, outcomes improved.
Why it works: Smooth and readable.
13. In the next step
Meaning: Ideal for guides or instructions.
Examples:
• In the next step, verify details.
• In the next step, assign roles.
• In the next step, finalize plans.
• In the next step, test results.
• In the next step, review outcomes.
Why it works: Structured and user-friendly.
14. Accordingly
Meaning: Action taken based on logic.
Examples:
• Accordingly, changes were made.
• Accordingly, timelines were updated.
• Accordingly, the strategy shifted.
• Accordingly, resources were allocated.
• Accordingly, goals were revised.
Why it works: Sounds decisive and professional.
15. Once that occurred
Meaning: Emphasizes completed action.
Examples:
• Once that occurred, progress resumed.
• Once that occurred, approvals followed.
• Once that occurred, execution began.
• Once that occurred, systems stabilized.
• Once that occurred, reporting started.
Why it works: Clear cause-sequence link.
16. In turn
Meaning: Shows chain reaction.
Examples:
• In turn, efficiency improved.
• In turn, morale increased.
• In turn, output rose.
• In turn, engagement grew.
• In turn, costs declined.
Why it works: Compact and elegant.
17. Subsequent to this
Meaning: Very formal sequencing.
Examples:
• Subsequent to this, audits were conducted.
• Subsequent to this, changes followed.
• Subsequent to this, systems updated.
• Subsequent to this, results improved.
• Subsequent to this, progress accelerated.
Why it works: Best for legal or academic writing.
18. After this stage
Meaning: Process-focused transition.
Examples:
• After this stage, testing begins.
• After this stage, review occurs.
• After this stage, approval is required.
• After this stage, implementation follows.
• After this stage, evaluation starts.
Why it works: Clear workflow signaling.
19. With that in mind
Meaning: Logical transition based on context.
Examples:
• With that in mind, adjustments were made.
• With that in mind, goals were revised.
• With that in mind, strategy evolved.
• With that in mind, planning continued.
• With that in mind, decisions followed.
Why it works: Thoughtful and analytical.
20. Ultimately
Meaning: Indicates final outcome.
Examples:
• Ultimately, the project succeeded.
• Ultimately, changes proved effective.
• Ultimately, consensus was reached.
• Ultimately, the strategy worked.
• Ultimately, goals were achieved.
Why it works: Strong conclusion marker.
Consideration: How to Choose the Right Phrase
Choosing the right alternative depends on more than grammar.
Key factors to consider:
- ✔ Tone: Formal vs conversational
- ✔ Audience: Academic, client, colleague, reader
- ✔ Urgency: Immediate result or long-term outcome
- ✔ Context: Instructional, analytical, narrative
- ✔ Clarity: Does it explain sequence or consequence?
Mini Examples
- Academic: “Consequently, the hypothesis was rejected.”
- Business: “Subsequently, the client approved the plan.”
- Narrative: “Afterward, everything changed.”
Quick One-Line Templates
Copy and use instantly:
- As a result, the plan was revised.
- Subsequently, further action was taken.
- Following this, implementation began.
- Consequently, outcomes improved.
- At that point, decisions were finalized.
- In response, the team adjusted.
- From there, progress continued.
- Ultimately, the objective was achieved.
- Accordingly, timelines were updated.
- Afterward, analysis followed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting every sentence with “Then”
- Using “Then” without clear reference
- Mixing casual transitions in formal writing
- Overusing sequence words unnecessarily
- Ignoring tone and audience expectations
FAQ
1. Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with “then”?
Yes, it is grammatically correct.
2. Is “then” considered informal?
Not always, but it often sounds conversational.
3. Should I avoid “then” in academic writing?
Prefer more precise alternatives.
4. Can “then” weaken clarity?
Yes, if the sequence isn’t clear.
5. What’s the best formal replacement for “then”?
“Subsequently” or “As a result.”
6. Is “then” okay in storytelling?
Absolutely—when used sparingly.
Conclusion
Starting a sentence with “then” isn’t wrong—but it isn’t always the best choice. Professional writing demands precision, clarity, and intentional flow. By choosing stronger alternatives, you elevate your tone, strengthen your logic, and communicate with confidence.
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