Synonyms for “Since Then”: Enhancing Your English Vocabulary

Understanding and using synonyms for “since then” is crucial for adding variety and sophistication to your writing and speech. This article explores a range of alternatives, providing clear definitions, examples, and practical exercises to help you master their usage.

Whether you’re an English language learner or a native speaker looking to refine your communication skills, this guide will equip you with the tools to express temporal relationships with greater precision and flair.

By exploring these synonyms, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to convey the passage of time and the consequences of past events, improving both your written and spoken English.

Introduction
Definition of “Since Then”
Structural Breakdown
Types and Categories of Synonyms
Examples
Usage Rules
Common Mistakes
Practice Exercises
Advanced Topics
FAQ
Conclusion

Definition of “Since Then”

“Since then” is an adverbial phrase that indicates a period of time following a specific event or point in time. It signifies that something has occurred, changed, or continued from that past moment until the present.

It’s used to establish a temporal relationship, connecting a past event with its subsequent effects or developments.

In essence, “since then” acts as a bridge, linking a past occurrence to the present situation, highlighting the duration and impact of the initial event. It provides context and continuity, enabling listeners or readers to understand the sequence of events and their interconnectedness.

The phrase is typically used to introduce a clause that describes what has happened or been true from that point onward, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the past event.

Structural Breakdown

The phrase “since then” comprises two components: the conjunction “since” and the adverb “then.” Understanding the individual roles of these components helps clarify the overall structure and function of the phrase.

Since: In this context, “since” acts as a temporal conjunction, indicating a point in time from which something else has continued. It establishes the starting point of the duration being referenced.
Then: “Then” is an adverb of time, referring to a specific point in the past, usually the event or time mentioned previously in the sentence. It reinforces the temporal anchor established by “since.”

The combination of “since” and “then” creates a cohesive adverbial phrase that effectively conveys the passage of time and the continuity of events. The phrase typically appears at the beginning of a clause, introducing the information that has been true or has occurred from the specified past point until the present moment.

For instance: “He moved to the city in 2010. Since then, he has become a successful entrepreneur.”

Types and Categories of Synonyms

While “since then” is a useful phrase, using a variety of synonyms can make your writing more engaging and precise. Here are several categories of synonyms for “since then,” each with slightly different nuances:

Immediately After

These synonyms emphasize the very short time that passed between the initial event and the subsequent occurrence. They suggest a direct and immediate consequence.

Immediately afterward
Right after that
Directly following

Shortly After

These synonyms indicate a brief period of time between the initial event and what followed. They suggest a quick succession of events.

Soon after
Shortly thereafter
Not long after

In the Meantime

This phrase suggests that something occurred during the intervening period. It focuses on what happened while the time passed.

In the intervening period
During that time

Subsequently

This synonym is more formal and indicates that something followed logically or naturally after the initial event. It implies a cause-and-effect relationship.

Thereafter
Consequently
As a result

Thereafter

Similar to “subsequently,” “thereafter” is a formal term indicating a period of time following a specific event, but often used in legal or official contexts.

From that time forward
Henceforth

From That Moment On

This synonym emphasizes a specific point in time that marked a change or turning point. It suggests a significant shift in circumstances.

From then on
After that point

In the Wake Of

This phrase suggests that the subsequent events were a direct result of the initial event, often implying negative consequences or significant changes.

As a consequence of
Following

Following That

A straightforward synonym indicating a sequence of events. It is less formal than “subsequently” or “thereafter”.

After that
Next

Afterward

A simple and direct synonym, suitable for most contexts, indicating that something happened at a later time.

Later
Subsequently

Examples

To illustrate the use of these synonyms, consider the following examples:

The following table includes examples using the synonym “Immediately Afterward.” These examples show the immediate consequence or action that followed an initial event.

Original Sentence	Sentence with “Immediately Afterward”
The bell rang. Since then, the students rushed out of the classroom.	The bell rang. Immediately afterward, the students rushed out of the classroom.
The storm passed. Since then, the sun came out.	The storm passed. Immediately afterward, the sun came out.
She finished the race. Since then, she collapsed from exhaustion.	She finished the race. Immediately afterward, she collapsed from exhaustion.
The presentation ended. Since then, the audience applauded enthusiastically.	The presentation ended. Immediately afterward, the audience applauded enthusiastically.
The power went out. Since then, the alarm system was triggered.	The power went out. Immediately afterward, the alarm system was triggered.
The news broke. Since then, the stock market crashed.	The news broke. Immediately afterward, the stock market crashed.
The concert ended. Since then, the crowd dispersed.	The concert ended. Immediately afterward, the crowd dispersed.
The ceasefire was announced. Since then, the fighting stopped.	The ceasefire was announced. Immediately afterward, the fighting stopped.
The contract was signed. Since then, the project commenced.	The contract was signed. Immediately afterward, the project commenced.
The verdict was read. Since then, the defendant broke down in tears.	The verdict was read. Immediately afterward, the defendant broke down in tears.
The offer was accepted. Since then, the negotiations concluded.	The offer was accepted. Immediately afterward, the negotiations concluded.
The goal was scored. Since then, the fans erupted in cheers.	The goal was scored. Immediately afterward, the fans erupted in cheers.
The website launched. Since then, it crashed due to high traffic.	The website launched. Immediately afterward, it crashed due to high traffic.
The rain stopped. Since then, a rainbow appeared.	The rain stopped. Immediately afterward, a rainbow appeared.
The bomb defused. Since then, the team celebrated their success.	The bomb defused. Immediately afterward, the team celebrated their success.
The book published. Since then, the author became a celebrity.	The book published. Immediately afterward, the author became a celebrity.
The fire started. Since then, the firefighters arrived.	The fire started. Immediately afterward, the firefighters arrived.
The earthquake struck. Since then, the tsunami started.	The earthquake struck. Immediately afterward, the tsunami started.
The meeting ended. Since then, everyone rushed to lunch.	The meeting ended. Immediately afterward, everyone rushed to lunch.
The code compiled. Since then, the testing began.	The code compiled. Immediately afterward, the testing began.
The lights turned on. Since then, the party started.	The lights turned on. Immediately afterward, the party started.
The announcement made. Since then, the crowd went silent.	The announcement made. Immediately afterward, the crowd went silent.
The email sent. Since then, he received a quick response.	The email sent. Immediately afterward, he received a quick response.

The following table includes examples using the synonym “Shortly Thereafter.” These examples indicate a brief period of time passed after the initial event.

Original Sentence	Sentence with “Shortly Thereafter”
He graduated from college. Since then, he found a great job.	He graduated from college. Shortly thereafter, he found a great job.
The company launched its new product. Since then, sales increased dramatically.	The company launched its new product. Shortly thereafter, sales increased dramatically.
The band released their album. Since then, they became famous.	The band released their album. Shortly thereafter, they became famous.
The politician announced his candidacy. Since then, his poll numbers rose.	The politician announced his candidacy. Shortly thereafter, his poll numbers rose.
The city implemented the new policy. Since then, traffic congestion improved.	The city implemented the new policy. Shortly thereafter, traffic congestion improved.
She started learning Spanish. Since then, she became fluent.	She started learning Spanish. Shortly thereafter, she became fluent.
The project received funding. Since then, it progressed rapidly.	The project received funding. Shortly thereafter, it progressed rapidly.
The store opened its doors. Since then, it became a local favorite.	The store opened its doors. Shortly thereafter, it became a local favorite.
The law was passed. Since then, crime rates decreased.	The law was passed. Shortly thereafter, crime rates decreased.
He moved to a new city. Since then, he made many new friends.	He moved to a new city. Shortly thereafter, he made many new friends.
The software was updated. Since then, it worked seamlessly.	The software was updated. Shortly thereafter, it worked seamlessly.
The team hired a new coach. Since then, their performance improved.	The team hired a new coach. Shortly thereafter, their performance improved.
The restaurant changed its menu. Since then, it attracted more customers.	The restaurant changed its menu. Shortly thereafter, it attracted more customers.
The school introduced a new program. Since then, enrollment increased.	The school introduced a new program. Shortly thereafter, enrollment increased.
They adopted a pet. Since then, their home felt warmer.	They adopted a pet. Shortly thereafter, their home felt warmer.
The artist displayed her work. Since then, she gained recognition.	The artist displayed her work. Shortly thereafter, she gained recognition.
The company invested in research. Since then, they innovated new products.	The company invested in research. Shortly thereafter, they innovated new products.
He started exercising. Since then, he felt healthier.	He started exercising. Shortly thereafter, he felt healthier.
The government launched the initiative. Since then, it achieved significant results.	The government launched the initiative. Shortly thereafter, it achieved significant results.
The university offered the course. Since then, it became very popular.	The university offered the course. Shortly thereafter, it became very popular.
The couple got engaged. Since then, they started planning their wedding.	The couple got engaged. Shortly thereafter, they started planning their wedding.
The community started recycling. Since then, waste decreased.	The community started recycling. Shortly thereafter, waste decreased.
She started volunteering. Since then, she felt more fulfilled.	She started volunteering. Shortly thereafter, she felt more fulfilled.

The following table includes examples using the synonym “Subsequently.” These examples showcase a logical or natural sequence of events following an initial action.

Original Sentence	Sentence with “Subsequently”
The research was completed. Since then, the findings were published.	The research was completed. Subsequently, the findings were published.
The bill passed in the House. Since then, it was sent to the Senate.	The bill passed in the House. Subsequently, it was sent to the Senate.
The company merged with its competitor. Since then, it became a market leader.	The company merged with its competitor. Subsequently, it became a market leader.
The treaty was signed. Since then, relations between the two countries improved.	The treaty was signed. Subsequently, relations between the two countries improved.
The project was approved. Since then, funding was allocated.	The project was approved. Subsequently, funding was allocated.
The data was collected. Since then, it was analyzed for insights.	The data was collected. Subsequently, it was analyzed for insights.
The report was submitted. Since then, it was reviewed by the committee.	The report was submitted. Subsequently, it was reviewed by the committee.
The proposal was accepted. Since then, the team started working on it.	The proposal was accepted. Subsequently, the team started working on it.
The test was conducted. Since then, the results were evaluated.	The test was conducted. Subsequently, the results were evaluated.
The system was implemented. Since then, it was monitored for performance.	The system was implemented. Subsequently, it was monitored for performance.
The plan was developed. Since then, it was presented to the stakeholders.	The plan was developed. Subsequently, it was presented to the stakeholders.
The prototype was built. Since then, it was tested rigorously.	The prototype was built. Subsequently, it was tested rigorously.
The design was finalized. Since then, it was sent for manufacturing.	The design was finalized. Subsequently, it was sent for manufacturing.
The event was organized. Since then, invitations were sent out.	The event was organized. Subsequently, invitations were sent out.
The curriculum was updated. Since then, students enrolled in the new courses.	The curriculum was updated. Subsequently, students enrolled in the new courses.
The policy was announced. Since then, it was implemented across the organization.	The policy was announced. Subsequently, it was implemented across the organization.
The framework was developed. Since then, it was used in multiple projects.	The framework was developed. Subsequently, it was used in multiple projects.
The software was released. Since then, updates were regularly deployed.	The software was released. Subsequently, updates were regularly deployed.
The study was conducted. Since then, its findings were widely cited.	The study was conducted. Subsequently, its findings were widely cited.
The guidelines were established. Since then, they were followed strictly.	The guidelines were established. Subsequently, they were followed strictly.
The budget was approved. Since then, funds were allocated to different departments.	The budget was approved. Subsequently, funds were allocated to different departments.
The agreement was reached. Since then, both parties collaborated effectively.	The agreement was reached. Subsequently, both parties collaborated effectively.
The program was launched. Since then, it expanded its reach across the country.	The program was launched. Subsequently, it expanded its reach across the country.

This table presents examples using “From That Moment On,” focusing on a specific point in time that marked a significant change.

Original Sentence	Sentence with “From That Moment On”
She decided to change her life. Since then, she pursued her dreams relentlessly.	She decided to change her life. From that moment on, she pursued her dreams relentlessly.
He realized the importance of education. Since then, he dedicated himself to learning.	He realized the importance of education. From that moment on, he dedicated himself to learning.
The company adopted a new strategy. Since then, it saw unprecedented growth.	The company adopted a new strategy. From that moment on, it saw unprecedented growth.
The community embraced sustainability. Since then, it reduced its carbon footprint.	The community embraced sustainability. From that moment on, it reduced its carbon footprint.
He survived the accident. Since then, he valued every moment of life.	He survived the accident. From that moment on, he valued every moment of life.
She overcame her fear of public speaking. Since then, she inspired many others.	She overcame her fear of public speaking. From that moment on, she inspired many others.
The team won the championship. Since then, it set new records.	The team won the championship. From that moment on, it set new records.
He discovered his passion for art. Since then, he created masterpieces.	He discovered his passion for art. From that moment on, he created masterpieces.
The organization committed to social justice. Since then, it advocated for equality.	The organization committed to social justice. From that moment on, it advocated for equality.
She resolved to live a healthier lifestyle. Since then, she prioritized her well-being.	She resolved to live a healthier lifestyle. From that moment on, she prioritized her well-being.
He decided to start his own business. Since then, he worked tirelessly towards his goals.	He decided to start his own business. From that moment on, he worked tirelessly towards his goals.
She chose to forgive. Since then, she found inner peace.	She chose to forgive. From that moment on, she found inner peace.
The city invested in renewable energy. Since then, it reduced its reliance on fossil fuels.	The city invested in renewable energy. From that moment on, it reduced its reliance on fossil fuels.
He committed to continuous improvement. Since then, he sought new knowledge every day.	He committed to continuous improvement. From that moment on, he sought new knowledge every day.
She decided to travel the world. Since then, she experienced diverse cultures.	She decided to travel the world. From that moment on, she experienced diverse cultures.
He resolved to make a difference. Since then, he volunteered in his community.	He resolved to make a difference. From that moment on, he volunteered in his community.
She chose to embrace change. Since then, she adapted to new challenges easily.	She chose to embrace change. From that moment on, she adapted to new challenges easily.
He decided to pursue his dreams. Since then, he ignored the naysayers.	He decided to pursue his dreams. From that moment on, he ignored the naysayers.
She committed to lifelong learning. Since then, she pursued advanced degrees.	She committed to lifelong learning. From that moment on, she pursued advanced degrees.
He resolved to be kind. Since then, he showed compassion to everyone.	He resolved to be kind. From that moment on, he showed compassion to everyone.
She chose to believe in herself. Since then, she achieved remarkable success.	She chose to believe in herself. From that moment on, she achieved remarkable success.
He dedicated himself to mastering his craft. Since then, he became a renowned expert.	He dedicated himself to mastering his craft. From that moment on, he became a renowned expert.
She resolved to live each day to the fullest. Since then, she seized every opportunity.	She resolved to live each day to the fullest. From that moment on, she seized every opportunity.

Usage Rules

When using synonyms for “since then,” keep the following rules in mind:

Context is Key: Choose a synonym that fits the specific context and conveys the intended nuance. Consider the time frame, the relationship between events, and the level of formality required.
Placement: Most synonyms for “since then” can be placed at the beginning of the clause they modify. However, some, like “thereafter,” can also appear later in the sentence.
Tense Consistency: Ensure that the tense of the verb in the clause following the synonym is consistent with the meaning. Typically, the past perfect or present perfect tenses are used to indicate actions or states that have continued from the past until the present.
Formal vs. Informal: Be aware of the formality of the synonym. “Subsequently” and “thereafter” are more formal than “after that” or “soon after.”

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using synonyms for “since then”:

Incorrect Tense: Using the simple past tense when the present perfect or past perfect is required.
- Incorrect: He moved to London in 2015. Subsequently, he *became* a successful businessman.
- Correct: He moved to London in 2015. Subsequently, he *has become* a successful businessman.
Inappropriate Synonym: Choosing a synonym that doesn’t fit the context.
- Incorrect: The meeting ended. In the meantime, they went for lunch. (Implies lunch occurred *during* the meeting)
- Correct: The meeting ended. Afterward, they went for lunch.
Misusing “Since”: Confusing “since then” with “since” used as a causal conjunction.
- Incorrect: Since then he was tired, he went to bed early.
- Correct: Because he was tired, he went to bed early.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Choose the best synonym for “since then” to complete each sentence.

Exercise 1: Choose the best synonym for “since then” in the following sentences:

Question	Possible Answers	Correct Answer
The company launched its new product. _____, sales have increased dramatically.	a) Immediately afterward b) Shortly thereafter c) In the meantime	b) Shortly thereafter
The treaty was signed. _____, relations between the two countries improved.	a) Subsequently b) Right after that c) During that time	a) Subsequently
She decided to change her life. _____, she pursued her dreams relentlessly.	a) From that moment on b) Afterward c) Consequently	a) From that moment on
The storm passed. _____, the sun came out.	a) There after b) Immediately afterward c) As a result	b) Immediately afterward
He graduated from college. _____, he found a great job.	a) In the wake of b) Shortly thereafter c) Thereafter	b) Shortly thereafter
The research was completed. _____, the findings were published.	a) In the wake of b) Subsequently c) During that time	b) Subsequently
She realized the importance of education. _____, she dedicated herself to learning.	a) From that moment on b) In the meantime c) Following that	a) From that moment on
The bell rang. _____, the students rushed out of the classroom.	a) Shortly thereafter b) Immediately afterward c) Subsequently	b) Immediately afterward
The offer was accepted. _____, the negotiations concluded.	a) Immediately afterward b) Shortly thereafter c) In the meantime	a) Immediately afterward
The website launched. _____, it crashed due to high traffic.	a) Immediately afterward b) Shortly thereafter c) In the meantime	a) Immediately afterward

Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using a synonym for “since then.”

He moved to the city in 2010. Since then, he has become a successful entrepreneur.
The new law was enacted. Since then, there have been many changes.
She learned to play the piano at age 5. Since then, she has performed in concerts worldwide.
The company adopted a new marketing strategy. Since then, their profits have soared.
The bridge was completed in 1998. Since then, it has facilitated trade between the two regions.
The project was launched last year. Since then, it has faced numerous challenges.
The team hired a new coach. Since then, they have won every game.
The school implemented a new curriculum. Since then, student performance has improved significantly.
The town invested in renewable energy. Since then, their carbon footprint has decreased.
The artist started experimenting with new techniques. Since then, his work has gained international recognition.

Answers to Exercise 2:

He moved to the city in 2010. Subsequently, he has become a successful entrepreneur.
The new law was enacted. Thereafter, there have been many changes.
She learned to play the piano at age 5. From that moment on, she has performed in concerts worldwide.
The company adopted a new marketing strategy. Shortly thereafter, their profits soared.
The bridge was completed in 1998. Since then, it has facilitated trade between the two regions. (No change needed, “since then” is appropriate here.)
The project was launched last year. In the intervening period, it has faced numerous challenges.
The team hired a new coach. Immediately afterward, they won every game.
The school implemented a new curriculum. Subsequently, student performance has improved significantly.
The town invested in renewable energy. As a result, their carbon footprint has decreased.
The artist started experimenting with new techniques. Subsequently, his work has gained international recognition.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider the following nuances:

Subtleties of Formality: While “subsequently” and “thereafter” are generally formal, their specific connotations can vary depending on the field. “Thereafter” is often used in legal or official documents, while “subsequently” is common in academic writing.
Implied Causation: Some synonyms, like “in the wake of,” strongly imply a causal relationship, while others, like “afterward,” are more neutral.
Combining Synonyms: In complex sentences, you can combine synonyms for “since then” with other temporal adverbs to create a more nuanced timeline. For example: “The initial report was filed in January. Subsequently, in February, a follow-up investigation was launched.”

FAQ

What is the difference between “since” and “since then”?
“Since” can be a conjunction indicating time or a reason, or a preposition indicating a point in time. “Since then” is an adverbial phrase specifically indicating the period of time after a certain event until the present. “Since I saw you last” (conjunction) vs. “I haven’t seen him. Since then, he has moved away.” (since then)
Can “since then” be used at the end of a sentence?
No, “since then” typically introduces a clause and is placed at the beginning of the clause. However, some synonyms like “afterward” can be placed at the end of a sentence. “He moved to Paris, and he became a chef afterward.”
Is “since then” formal or informal?
“Since then” is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though some synonyms like “subsequently” and “thereafter” are more formal.
How do I choose the right synonym for “since then”?
Consider the specific nuance you want to convey, the time frame involved, and the level of formality required. Choose a synonym that accurately reflects the relationship between the events and fits the overall tone of your writing or speech.
Can I use “since then” in questions?
While grammatically possible, it’s not common to use “since then” in direct questions. It’s more natural to rephrase the question to express the same idea. For example, instead of “Since then, have you been happy?”, you could say “Have you been happy since that time?”
Are there any regional variations in the use of “since then” or its synonyms?
While the core meaning remains consistent across different English-speaking regions, some synonyms might be more common or preferred in certain areas. However, these variations are generally minor and don’t significantly affect comprehension.
What are some common misspellings or grammatical errors associated with “since then” and its synonyms?
Common errors include using the wrong tense in the clause following “since then,” choosing an inappropriate synonym for the context, and confusing “since then” with other uses of “since.” Spelling errors are less common, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your writing.
Is it redundant to say “ever since then”?
While “since then” already implies a duration from a past point until the present, adding “ever” can provide additional emphasis on the continuity of the action or state. It’s not strictly redundant, but it should be used sparingly to avoid sounding repetitive.

Conclusion

Mastering synonyms for ”

since then” allows for more precise and engaging communication. By understanding the nuances of each alternative, you can add depth and variety to your writing and speech, effectively conveying the passage of time and the relationships between events.

Whether you choose “subsequently,” “thereafter,” or “from that moment on,” the key is to select the synonym that best fits the context and enhances the overall impact of your message. With practice and attention to detail, you can confidently use these synonyms to elevate your English language skills.