When to Use Then vs Than — Quick Answer
Quick answer: use "then" for time, sequence, or consequence, and use "than" for comparisons.
Definition: Then
"Then" is an adverb (and sometimes an adjective or noun) that refers to time, sequence, or a result. It can mean "at that time," "next," or "as a consequence."
Etymology: "Then" comes from Old English þænne/þanne, related to words in other Germanic languages that denote time or sequence.
Definition: Than
"Than" is a conjunction (and occasionally a preposition) used to introduce the second element in a comparison. It links things when we contrast size, degree, or preference.
Etymology: "Than" descends from Old English þonne/þænne used in comparative structures; its modern use narrowed to comparative contexts.
Key Differences
| Feature | Then | Than |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Refers to time, sequence, or consequence (e.g., at that time, next, therefore) | Introduces a comparison between two things or ideas |
| Usage | Use when describing when something happens or what follows (If... then...) | Use when comparing quantities, qualities, or choices (bigger than, smarter than) |
| Part of speech | Adverb (sometimes adjective or noun) | Conjunction (sometimes preposition) |
Example Sentences with "Then"
- We went to the cafe, and then we walked along the river.
- If you finish your homework, then you can watch a movie.
- Back then, smartphones were rare and expensive.
- Mix the ingredients, then bake for 20 minutes until golden.
Example Sentences with "Than"
- She is taller than her brother by two inches.
- I would rather read a book than watch TV tonight.
- This puzzle is more challenging than the last one.
- Better to be safe than sorry.
Memory Trick
Mnemonic: Think "then = time" (both words have an "e" and point to a moment) and "than = comparison" (both have an "a" as in a vs. b). A quicker swap test: if you can replace the word with "at that time," "next," or "as a result," use then; if you can replace it with "compared to," use than.
Playful nudge: When you're thinking sequencing (first, then, later), picture a timeline. When you're sizing things up (bigger than, smarter than), picture a balance scale.
Quick Quiz — Fill in the Blank
- I would rather drink tea _____ coffee.
- Finish your chores, _____ you can play video games.
- Ten years ago, _____ I lived in the city, I had a different job.
- He's more experienced _____ anyone else on the team.
Answers:
- than
- then
- when/then (best: then)
- than
Frequently Asked Questions
Can "then" ever be used in comparisons?
No — "then" is about time or consequence, not comparison. If you're comparing two items, "than" is the correct choice. If you accidentally use "then" in a comparison, a quick swap with "compared to" will reveal the error.
Is "than" ever pronounced differently?
Usually "than" is pronounced /ðæn/ or /ðən/ depending on dialect, while "then" is /ðɛn/. Pronunciation may vary, but meaning is what matters for correct usage.
Can Rephrasely tools help me practice these rules?
Yes — use Rephrasely's AI writer or paraphraser at https://rephrasely.com/ to generate practice sentences and see correct usage. You can also check your work with the /plagiarism-checker and /ai-detector, or draft exercises in the /composer to reinforce the difference.