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

At the same time, the House bill raises the SALT deduction cap to $40,000—but then phases it out for high earners. —Robert Green, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Still nothing from Bernie, but then Randall hears it - an unmistakable mesh of gurgling, groaning, and whimpering that suggests someone is in dire trouble. —Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 28 May 2025

The cryptocurrency’s price rose after that tweet, but then fell by more than $2,000 after the SEC quickly regained control of the account and said the tweet was false. —Dan Mangan, CNBC, 16 May 2025

There’s plenty of evidence to support that — but then again, evidence and the facts have never been their strong suit. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 May 2025

Rhymes for but then

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