1
Core function
Starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
Example
The archive opened in 2008; from then on, every entry was digitised.
from then on
/frəm ðen ɒn/ · from then ONsequence phrase
Starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
Use from then on to express this relationship precisely: starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
What from then on Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
From then on, the river served as the settlement's eastern boundary.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The catalyst was added at noon, and from then on the reaction accelerated.
Use from then on Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The archive opened in 2008; from then on, every entry was digitised.
From then on, the river served as the settlement's eastern boundary.
The catalyst was added at noon, and from then on the reaction accelerated.
Precision Matters
From then on overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
from then on
vs.Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
meanwhile
Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
from then on
vs.Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
in the long run
Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
from then on
vs.Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
in the short term
Means during the near future or over a limited period.
from then on
vs.Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
in turn
Means mark the next step in a sequence or a result that then produces another result.
Test from then on in Context
The new requirement begins at one moment and continues afterwards.
1
The court revised the rule in 1996; ___, all appeals had to include a written record.