- 2-minute read
- 24th June 2023
Then vs. Than | Explanation & Examples
Then and than are two of the most commonly used words in English. They also sound almost identical yet have completely different meanings – making it a little tricky sometimes to know which one to use. In this post, we’ll outline the differences between than and then and provide helpful examples to demonstrate the use of each word.
When to Use Then
In most cases, we use then as an adverb related to the passage of time. It can indicate a sequence of events:
He woke up, showered, and then had breakfast.
Then can also signify a consequence or result in an if–then structure:
If you don’t study, then you might fail the test.
Or we can use then to indicate a logical conclusion, using the same structure as above:
If it’s cold outside, then it’s best to wear a warm jacket.
In some specific cases, we use then as a noun or an adjective:
Adjective: The then-mayor signed the bill last year.
When to Use Than
Than is a conjunction or preposition we use to demonstrate contrast. For example, we can use it to establish a comparison between two things, people, or ideas:
My sister made more money than I did last year.
Or than can draw a time comparison:
The meeting will start no later than 9 a.m.
We can also use than to express a preference:
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She would rather have tea than coffee.
Or than can indicate an exception or exclusion:
I have visited every country in Europe, other than Spain.
Word Choice: Then or Than?
If you’re unsure of which word to use, consider the context and intended meaning of the sentence:
· Then relates to time, a sequence, a consequence, or a logical conclusion.
· Than is used for comparisons and highlighting differences or contrasts.
So remember: if you’re making a comparison of some kind or stating an exception, than is likely the correct choice. If you’re discussing issues related to time, such as a sequence of events or an action and its consequence, then is the right word. When in doubt, remember that you can usually substitute then for words such as at that time, next, and consequently, but you can’t easily substitute another word or phrase for than.
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