Than vs Then: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Than" is used for making comparisons, while "then" indicates time or sequence.
Memory Tip: than = compare, then = time sequence
than ends with /n/, then ends with /n/ and /e/ sound
than /ðæn/
prepositionUsed to show a difference between two things being compared.
Example:
I like apples more than oranges for breakfast.
Common patterns:
taller than
better than
then /ðɛn/
adverbAt that time or next in order.
Example:
We will go to the park and then have ice cream.
Common patterns:
first
then; after that
then
Common Mistakes
She is taller then her brother.
She is taller than her brother.
The sentence compares height, so 'than' is correct.
Finish your homework first, than you can watch TV.
Finish your homework first, then you can watch TV.
'Then' is used to indicate the sequence of actions.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. I like apples more ____ oranges for breakfast.
2. We will go to the park and ____ have ice cream.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse than / then again
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