すると

すると
conjunction
then, thereupon
1. then, thereupon, and then
A conjunction indicating that one action or event follows another, often with an element of natural consequence or unexpected result.
ドアを()けた。すると、(ねこ)(はい)ってきた。
I opened the door. Then, a cat came in.
Unexpected consequence
(くすり)()んだ。すると、元気(げんき)になった。
I took the medicine. Then, I got better.
Natural consequence
電話(でんわ)をかけた。すると、田中(たなか)さんが()た。
I made a phone call. Then, Mr. Tanaka answered.
(まど)()けた。すると、(つめ)たい(かぜ)(はい)ってきて、気持(きも)ちよかった。
I opened the window. Then, a cool breeze came in, and it felt nice.
名前(なまえ)()んだ。すると、(かれ)()()いて、にっこり(わら)った。
I called out his name. Then, he turned around and smiled.

すると connects two sentences where the second follows as a consequence of the first.

USAGE:

  • Often starts a new sentence
  • Implies a cause-effect or sequential relationship
  • Can express unexpected results

SIMILAR CONJUNCTIONS:

  • そうすると: if you do so, then
  • それから: and then, after that (simple sequence)
  • そして: and, and then (additive)
  • すぐに: immediately (emphasis on speed)

DIFFERENCE FROM そして:

  • すると: implies consequence or surprise
  • そして: simple addition or continuation

[Register: Neutral, common in narrative]