Then vs Than: What's the Difference?
Quick Answer
Then relates to time or sequence; than is used for comparisons.
Definition of "Then"
"Then" is primarily an adverb that points to time, sequence, or consequence. Use it when you mean "at that time," "next," or "as a result."
The word comes from Old English "þænne," related to Germanic roots meaning "at that time." Over centuries it narrowed into the temporal and sequential uses we recognize today.
Definition of "Than"
"Than" is a conjunction (and sometimes a preposition) used to compare two things: faster than, stronger than, better than. It introduces the second element in a comparison.
"Than" comes from Old English "þonne" or "þænne," which at times overlapped with "then" historically. Modern English preserves a clear distinction: than = comparison, then = time/sequence.
Key Differences
| Word | Meaning | Typical Usage | Part of Speech |
|---|---|---|---|
| Then | Indicates time, sequence, or consequence (e.g., at that time; next; therefore) | After a point in time: "We ate, then we left." Or as a connector: "If so, then..." | Adverb; sometimes adjective or noun in fixed phrases |
| Than | Introduces a comparison between two items or ideas | Used with comparative forms: "bigger than," "more interesting than" | Conjunction or preposition (in comparisons) |
Example Sentences
Then (time/sequence/consequence)
- We finished dinner, then watched a movie.
- If you miss the bus, then you'll be late for class.
- Back then, people used letters instead of email.
- First water the plants, then add fertilizer.
Than (comparison)
- She is taller than her brother.
- This puzzle is harder than the last one.
- I would rather read a book than watch TV.
- More people commute by bike than by car in that neighborhood.
Memory Trick
Mnemonic: "Then" has an 'e' like "time" (both have an 'e'), so think "then = time/sequence." "Than" shares the 'a' with "compare" (the sound 'a' in "compare"), so "than = comparison."
Another quick visual trick: if you can replace the word with "next," "after that," or "as a result" and the sentence still makes sense, use then. If you're comparing two things, use than.
Quick Quiz
- Fill the blank: I would rather go to the beach _____ stay home.
- Fill the blank: Finish your homework, _____ you can play.
- Fill the blank: She is more experienced _____ anyone else on the team.
- Fill the blank: Back _____, everyone used physical maps.
Answers: 1) than — 2) then — 3) than — 4) then
If you find yourself mixing these two, try rewriting the sentence and substituting "next" or "after that"—if it fits, use then; if you're comparing, use than.
Want extra practice or automated suggestions? Rephrasely's AI writer (Composer) can generate alternative sentences to test which word fits, and the Rephrasely suite includes tools like the plagiarism checker, the AI detector, and a paraphraser to sharpen your wording.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can "then" ever be used in comparisons?
No—"then" is about time or consequence. Use "than" for comparisons. If your sentence compares two things, "than" is the safe and correct choice.
Is "than" always a conjunction?
Mostly yes—"than" functions as a conjunction introducing the second element in a comparison. In informal speech it can act like a preposition ("older than me"), but its role is still comparative.
How can I stop mixing them up in my writing?
Use the mnemonic above and practice with short exercises. You can also run sentences through tools on Rephrasely—the paraphraser and Composer will suggest rewrites, while the AI detector and plagiarism checker help ensure clarity and originality.