No, “then” is not a preposition. It is primarily an adverb and can also function as a noun or adjective in some cases.
Uses of “Then”:
- As an Adverb (Indicating time or sequence)
- We finished dinner, and then we ordered dessert.
- If the system crashes, then restart it.
- As a Noun (Referring to a point in time)
- Since then, the restaurant has improved service.
- By then, it was too late to make a reservation.
- As an Adjective (Describing a past status, meaning “former”)
- The then manager introduced a new menu.
- The then chef was well-known in the industry.
Why “Then” Is Not a Preposition
- Prepositions (e.g., in, on, under, about) show relationships between words.
- “Then” does not establish relationships between nouns or pronouns; it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, making it an adverb in most cases.
Thus, “then” is not a preposition; it is mainly an adverb.
