The phrase "just then" is spelled phonetically as /dʒʌst ðɛn/. The first syllable "just" is pronounced with the voiced postalveolar affricate /dʒ/, followed by the short vowel /ʌ/ and the voiceless alveolar fricative /s/. The second word "then" is pronounced with the voiced dental fricative /ð/, followed by the short vowel /ɛ/ and the voiced alveolar nasal /n/. Together, "just then" is a common expression used to describe a moment that has just occurred or happened.
Just then is an adverbial phrase used to denote a specific point in time, indicating an occurrence or event that took place immediately or precisely at that moment. This phrase can be used to describe a sudden happening or a coincidental sequence of events. It suggests that something significant or relevant occurred at precisely the right or opportune time.
The phrase "just then" is typically employed in narrative or storytelling contexts to create suspense, transition between different events, or highlight a crucial moment. It emphasizes the timing of an action, situation, or reaction, underscoring its relation to the surrounding events or circumstances. It often implies chance, urgency, or unexpectedness, capturing the element of surprise in a narrative.
By using "just then," writers or speakers aim to convey a sense of immediacy and precision, signaling the precise occurrence of an event to heighten the reader's or listener's engagement. It helps in setting the pace and rhythm of the story, updating the audience with the timely developments or revelations. This phrase enables authors to effectively build tension, create anticipation, or introduce a twist in a tale.
For example, "As they were about to give up hope, just then, they noticed a faint glimmer of light in the distance." In this context, "just then" signifies the critical moment when the characters' situation shifts dramatically, offering a glimpse of potential salvation.
The word "just then" is a phrase rather than a single word, but it primarily consists of the word "just" combined with the word "then".
The word "just" can be traced back to the Latin word "iustus", meaning "upright, righteous, or fair". In Middle English, the word developed into "juste", maintaining its original meaning. Over time, it eventually evolved into the modern English word "just", which refers to something done in accordance with principles of fairness or righteousness.
The word "then" has a different etymology. It derives from the Old English word "þanne", meaning "at that time" or "at that point". This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "thana", which had a similar meaning. In various Germanic languages, similar terms evolved, all carrying the idea of a specific point in time.