but then

idiom

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

That would fundamentally reshape how complex work gets done–first in software development, but then in other professions. —Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 23 Jan. 2026

Authorities said he was asked to get of the vehicle for a field sobriety test, but then suddenly collapsed in the snow. —Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 22 Jan. 2026

Other forum posts warn that the update starts but then fails. —Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

Not all accessories are functionally adequate enough to attain the status of a capsule-worthy piece, but then again, no other item’s addition can single-handedly make any outfit more appropriate for a frigid January day like that of a statement scarf. —Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, InStyle, 21 Jan. 2026

Rhymes for but then

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