What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thereafter
Example
The company went bankrupt, and thereafter, its employees lost their jobs. [thereafter: adverb]
Example
After the meeting, we will discuss the agenda for the next week's conference thereafter. [thereafter: adverb]
then
Example
I finished my homework, and then I watched TV. [then: adverb]
Example
If you want to join us, then you need to RSVP by tomorrow. [then: conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Then is more commonly used than thereafter in everyday language. Then is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while thereafter is less common and typically used in formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thereafter and then?
Thereafter is more formal than then and is typically used in legal or formal contexts. Then is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
