"so" vs "then"

Question

"so" vs "then"

The words 'so' and 'then' have different meanings and are used in different contexts. 'So' is often used to indicate a consequence or reason, while 'then' is used to show a sequence of events or actions. They are not interchangeable, and the choice between them depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

Use 'so' to introduce a consequence or reason, to emphasize a point, or to show the manner in which something is done.

Examples:

I was tired, so I went to bed early.
She studied hard, so she passed the exam.
He spoke softly, so as not to wake the baby.
I like ice cream, so I bought a cone.
It was raining, so we decided to stay indoors.

Alternatives:

therefore
thus
consequently
hence
as a result

Use 'then' to show a chronological order of events, to indicate what happens next, or to introduce a consequence.

Examples:

I finished my homework, then I went to bed.
She ate breakfast, then she went for a walk.
First, we need to prepare the ingredients, then we can start cooking.
If you press this button, then the machine will start.
He apologized, then he left the room.

Alternatives:

next
after that
subsequently
following that
in that case

Answer 1

so

The word 'so' is correct and commonly used in English to indicate a consequence, reason, or manner.

Answer 2

then

The word 'then' is correct and commonly used in English to indicate a sequence of events or actions.

"so" vs "then"

so

then

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