Then vs than: Understanding the key differences

So, in this post, we'll dive into the core of how each word works so that by the end, you'll be confidently using them both and avoiding common pitfalls.

Let's get started!

Understanding the basics of "then" and "than"

In a nutshell, the word "then" relates to time, whereas the word "than" is all about comparison. So, mixing them up can change the entire meaning of a sentence!

Take a look at these examples:

• “We went to the park, then had ice cream.” (As you can see, the word "then" in this instance helps to describe a sequence of events)
• “Ice cream is better than cake.” (Where, in this sentence, the word "than" is used to compare one item to another)

See the difference? It’s simple once you get the hang of it! With the basics covered, let’s explore these two words more deeply.

Then: The timekeeper

The word "then" does a lot of work in the English language, especially when it comes to marking time. Whether you’re telling a story or giving instructions, "then" helps clarify the sequence of events.

Using "then" for sequence

"Then" is usually an adverb that answers the question “When?” For example:

• “I was at the gym, then I went home.”
• “We’ll finish the project, then celebrate.”

In both of the above sentences, "then" indicates when something happened in relation to something else, helping keep your timeline straight.

Other uses of the word "then"

However, "then" can also be used as a noun. This usage is less common; however, it highlights the versatility of this word.

As a noun, "then" refers to a specific point in time, usually in the past or future.

Here are a few examples of "then" used as a noun:

Referring to a past moment: "We discussed the issue back then"- Here, "then" is used as a noun to refer to a specific time in the past.

Referring to a future moment: "We'll decide before then." In this sentence, "then" refers to a future point in time.

As a general rule, when "then" is used in the noun form, it often follows words like before, after, until, or by, which clarify the time frame being referenced, functioning like a shorthand for a specific period of time.

Than: The great comparator

Now, let's turn our attention to the word "than." This is all about making comparisons when measuring one thing against another.

For instance:

• “She’s taller than her brother.”
• “I’d rather stay home than go out.”

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Now let’s look at common mistakes people make when using the words "then" and "than"—and how to avoid them.

Sometimes, people use "then" when they should be using "than," especially in comparisons.

For example:

• Incorrect: “I like pizza better then burgers.”
• Correct: “I like pizza better than burgers.”

Another frequent error is using "than" when you’re talking about time.

Here’s an example:

• Incorrect: “We went shopping and than went to the movies.”
• Correct: “We went shopping and then went to the movies.”

Tips for Mastery

Don’t worry—mastering 'then' and 'than' is easier than you think. Here are a few practical tricks to help you get it right every time:

• Link "then" to time: Think of “when” and “then.” Both have "E" in them, which can remind you that "then" relates to events in time.
• Link "than" with comparison: Than has an 'a' just like in the word compare, which can remind you that "than" is the word you need when making comparisons.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so try crafting sentences using both words to get comfortable with them. Before you know it, you'll be using "then" and "than" like a pro.

Then vs than: It’s simpler than you think!

At the end of the day, "then" and "than" may seem like just two little words. However, they can make a big difference to the quality of your writing.

To recap:

"Then" is all about time and sequence, while "than" is used for making comparisons. Keep these distinctions in mind, and you’ll avoid one of the most common mistakes in English.

...And if you're ever feeling stuck, why not let Conturae help? Our team of expert writers will ensure your content is free from any “then” or “than” slip-ups and more! Want to learn more? Create an account today!