(way) back then
Meaning(s)
1. used to refer to a specific period of time in the past
Popularity
Low
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
things were different back then
Analysis
When we say ‘back then’ or ‘way back then’, we are referring to a specific period in the past. This is more likely to be used with someone you know when you are familiar with the time they are talking about. Similar meaning expressions include ‘back in my day’ and ‘when I was young’.
Social Examples (Basic)
- You wouldn't think it to look at me now, but I used to be in the army. Of course, I was a lot younger and thinner back then.
- Back then, I used to take trips around Europe all the time, but that was before I had kids and a career to think about.
- Jane was a lot nicer back then. I don't know what has happened to her since, but she has changed a lot.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- Back then, we worked every hour God sent! Of course, nowadays, it's illegal to make someone work so much.
- Way back then we were just a small team but now we employ over 200 people.