Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Then?

\Then\ ([th][e^]n), adv. [Originally the same word as than. See {Than}.] 1. At that time (referring to a time specified, either past or future). And the Canaanite was then in the land. --Gen. xii. 6. Now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. --1 Cor. xiii. 12. 2. Soon afterward, or immediately; next; afterward. First be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. --Matt. v. 24. 3. At another time; later; again. One while the master is not aware of what is done, and then in other cases it may fall out to be own act. --L'Estrange. {By then}. (a) By that time. (b) By the time that. [Obs.] But that opinion, I trust, by then this following argument hath been well read, will be left for one of the mysteries of an indulgent Antichrist. --Milton. {Now and then}. See under {Now}, adv. {Till then}, until that time; until the time mentioned. --Milton. Note: Then is often used elliptically, like an adjective, for then existing; as, the then administration.
\Then\, conj. 1. Than. [Obs.] --Spenser. 2. In that case; in consequence; as a consequence; therefore; for this reason. If all this be so, then man has a natural freedom. --Locke. Now, then, be all thy weighty cares away. --Dryden. Syn: Therefore. Usage: {Then}, {Therefore}. Both these words are used in reasoning; but therefore takes the lead, while then is rather subordinate or incidental. Therefore states reasons and draws inferences in form; then, to a great extent, takes the point as proved, and passes on to the general conclusion. ``Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God.'' --Rom. v. 1. ``So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.'' --Rom. x. 17.