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

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

Critics of Strategy claim that this is another example of GBTC, which also traded first at a premium, but then later at a discount. —Korok Ray, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025

It’s got a tight section underneath the bridge, but then it’s got a fast, flowing first sector. —Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 2 May 2025

Rhymes for but then

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