What part of speech is the word “then”?
What part of speech does the word "then" represent? Additionally, could you provide examples of its usage in different contexts to illustrate its various grammatical functions?
5 Answers
If it is the logical operator between two items in a decision line of computer code (If A and B then…), then it is a noun. Usually, though, common usage is as a conjunction. The linking verb idea is out because the “and” does not show action, but if there are two actions with an “and” to link them, then that is what a conjunction does. The pronoun is out because “and” is not a person. An “and” in a preposition, as with the verb example, is also in a conjunction function.
Function: noun
: that time <since then, he’s been more cautious>
Function: adverb
1 : at that time
2 a : soon after that : next in order of time <walked to the door, then turned> b : following next after in order of position, narration, or enumeration : being next in a series <first came the clowns, then came the elephants> c : in addition : BESIDES <then there is the interest to be paid>
3 a (1) : in that case <take it, then, if you want it so much> (2) — used after but to qualify or offset a preceding statement <she lost the race, but then she never really expected to win> b : according to that : as may be inferred <your mind is made up, then> c : as it appears : by way of summing up <the cause of the accident, then, is established> d : as a necessary consequence <if the angles are equal, then the complements are equal>
– and then some : with much more in addition <would require all his strength and then some>
Function: adjective
: existing or acting at or belonging to the time mentioned <the then secretary of state>
then and there
Function: adverb
: on the spot : IMMEDIATELY <wanted the money right then and there>
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