“Then” and “than” are two words that are often confused with each other.
They both have similar spellings and pronunciations, but they have different meanings and functions in a sentence.
Knowing when to use “then” and “than” correctly can improve your writing and communication skills.
In this article, we will explain the difference between “then” and “than”, and provide some examples to help you remember when to use each word.
What Does Then Mean?
“Then” is an adverb that means “at that time” or “next in order”. It is used to describe a sequence of events or actions, or to indicate a consequence or result.
For example:
- I finished my homework, and then I watched TV.
- If you study hard, then you will pass the exam.
- She was very busy back then.
- We went to the park, and then we had lunch.
- First, mix the flour and sugar. Then, add the eggs and milk.
What Does Than Mean?
“Than” is a conjunction that is used to compare two things or to introduce the second element in a comparison. It is used to show a difference or a preference between two things.
For example:
- She is taller than her brother.
- I would rather stay home than go out.
- He is more interested in science than in art.
- This book is better than that one.
- I like pizza more than burgers.
Other Than or Other Then
Other than is a phrase that means “except for” or “besides”. It is used to exclude something from a statement or to add something to a statement.
For example:
- I don’t like any vegetables other than carrots.
- Do you have any hobbies other than reading?
- He has no friends other than his dog.
Other then is a phrase that is sometimes used informally to mean “apart from” or “in addition to”. However, it is not considered standard English and should be avoided in formal writing.
For example:
- Other then the weather, everything was perfect.
- She has no family other then her parents.
More Then or More Than
More then is a phrase that is sometimes used informally to mean “later” or “afterwards”. However, it is not considered standard English and should be avoided in formal writing.
For example:
- We can talk more then.
- I’ll see you more then.
More than is a phrase that means “greater than” or “in excess of”. It is used to compare quantities or amounts.
For example:
- There are more than 100 people in the room.
- She earns more than $50,000 a year.
- He has more than enough time to finish the project.
Rather Than or Rather Then
Rather than is a phrase that means “instead of” or “in preference to”. It is used to show a choice or an alternative between two things.
For example:
- I would rather stay home than go out.
- She prefers tea rather than coffee.
- He chose to quit rather than accept the offer.
Rather then is a phrase that is sometimes used informally to mean “instead of” or “in preference to”. However, it is not considered standard English and should be avoided in formal writing.
For example:
- I would rather stay home then go out.
- She prefers tea rather then coffee.
- He chose to quit rather then accept the offer.
Conclusion
“Then” and “than” are two words that have different meanings and functions in a sentence. “Then” is an adverb that means “at that time” or “next in order”, while “than” is a conjunction that is used to compare two things. Remembering the difference between these two words can help you avoid common mistakes in your writing and communication.