Guide: How to Say “Then” in Spanish

In Spanish, the word “then” is a versatile term that can be translated into different expressions depending on the context. This guide will provide you with several ways to express “then” in Spanish, including both formal and informal options. While some regional variations exist, we will focus mainly on the standard Spanish spoken in most countries. So, let’s dive in and explore the multiple ways to say “then” in Spanish!

1. Formal Ways to Say “Then” in Spanish

When speaking formally or in professional settings, it’s essential to use appropriate language. Here are some formal expressions for “then” in Spanish:

1. Luego: This is a common way to say “then” when describing a sequence of events or actions in a formal context. For example:
   

   Juan estudió mucho y luego aprobó el examen. (Juan studied hard, and then he passed the exam.)

2. Después: In formal situations, “después” is often used to mean “then” when referring to a subsequent action or event. For instance:
   

   Primero debemos organizar nuestra agenda y después planificar el proyecto. (First, we need to organize our schedule, and then plan the project.)

3. Posteriormente: This is a more formal and precise way to express “then” when referring to a subsequent action or event. It is often used in academic or professional writing. Example:
   

   Analizamos los datos y posteriormente elaboramos las conclusiones. (We analyzed the data, and then we drew the conclusions.)

2. Informal Ways to Say “Then” in Spanish

In informal conversations, such as among friends or in casual settings, people tend to use different expressions for “then” in Spanish. Here are some informal options:

1. Entonces: This is a versatile and widely-used informal term that can mean “so” or “well” but is also employed as “then.” Example:
   

   Salgamos al cine y, entonces, decidimos qué hacer después. (Let’s go to the movies, and then we’ll decide what to do afterwards.)

2. Luego: While “luego” was mentioned as a formal option earlier, it is also commonly used in informal conversations, similar to “then” in English. For instance:
   

   Voy a la tienda y, luego, paso por tu casa. (I’ll go to the store, and then I’ll come by your house.)

3. Después: Just like in formal speech, “después” can also be used informally when talking about subsequent actions or events. Example:
   

   Jugamos un rato y después fuimos a cenar. (We played for a while, and then we went out to eat.)

3. Regional Variations

While the above expressions are widely understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, regional variations do exist. It’s worth noting a couple of them:

• In some areas of Latin America, particularly in Argentina and Uruguay, the expression entonces is often reduced to tonces. Example:
  

  Salimos al parque y, tonces, fuimos a comer helado. (We went to the park, and then we went to get ice cream.)

• In certain Caribbean Spanish dialects, the word entonces is sometimes shortened to entonce. Example:
  

  Bailamos un poco y, entonce, nos sentamos a descansar. (We danced for a while, and then we sat down to rest.)

Conclusion

In conclusion, expressing “then” in Spanish can be done in various ways, depending on the formality of the context and the region. When using formal language, opt for “luego” or “después.” In informal speech, “entonces,” “luego,” or “después” are commonly used. Regional variations include “tonces” in parts of Argentina and Uruguay, as well as “entonce” in certain Caribbean dialects. Consider these options and adapt your choice according to the situation. With practice, you will become confident in using the appropriate expression for “then” in Spanish, fostering effective communication in both formal and informal settings. ¡Buena suerte!