Than vs Then
The words than and then sound similar but have different meanings. Than is used for comparisons, while then is used for time or sequence.
Structure
- Than: Used in comparisons. Example: She is taller than her brother.
- Then: Used for time or sequence. Example: We went to the park, then we had lunch.
How the Grammar Works
- Use than when comparing two things. Example: 'This book is better than that one.'
- Use then to show what happens next in time. Example: 'First, we eat. Then, we play.'
Common Use Cases
- Comparing sizes, ages, or qualities: He is older than me.
- Describing a sequence of events: We finished dinner, then watched TV.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using then for comparisons: Incorrect: "She is smarter then him." Correct: "She is smarter than him."
- Using than for sequence: Incorrect: "We went to the store, than home." Correct: "We went to the store, then home."
Example Sentences
- My car is faster than yours.
- First, we will study. Then, we will play.
- She is more careful than her brother.
- I will call you then we can meet.
- This cake is sweeter than the other one.
When to Use This Rule
Use than when making comparisons between two things. Use then to describe what happens next in a sequence of events. Remember: than compares, then tells time or order.