but then

phrase

1

—used to introduce a statement that adds another and different thought to a preceding statement

I'm surprised to hear that Tom has left the army. But then I suppose he never was the type to obey orders.

—sometimes used to introduce an explanation for something

His cakes are amazing—but then he did study with some of the best pastry chefs in the world.

2

—used to introduce a statement that tells about something different or surprising that happened next

The team won the first two games, but then failed to win any of the next five.

Examples of but then in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s a moment in the book when Greg Chism is the world’s greatest lawn-care influencer, but then his life spirals in the most bizarre ways. — Elisabeth Garber-Paul, Rolling Stone, 7 Sep. 2026

Her safe space is at home, but then insecurity and danger move in. — Marta Balaga, Variety, 6 Sep. 2026

The House began what looked like an aggressive investigation, but then abandoned the process without explanation after witnesses refused to testify. — Darryll K. Jones, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Sep. 2026

If Drohan gets his starts, @ CIN today, but then vs CIN, @ BAL, vs STL. — Eno Sarris, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for but then

• again
• airmen
• amen
• bullpen
• culmen
• flagmen
• gunmen
• lawmen
• oilmen
• playpen
• schoolmen
• tegmen