Then vs Than: Time vs Comparison

The One-Letter Difference That Changes Everything

Quick Answer

Then = time or sequence (next, afterward). Than = comparison (comparing two things).

Memory trick: thAn = compArison, thEn = timE.

When to Use "Then" (Time/Sequence)

Then relates to time or sequence—what happens next or at that time.

  • First we eat, then we leave. → sequence ✓
  • I was younger then. → at that time ✓
  • What happens then? → next ✓
  • If you're tired, then rest. → consequence ✓
  • We'll see you then. → at that time ✓

When to Use "Than" (Comparison)

Than is used for comparisons—comparing two things.

  • She is taller than me. → comparing heights ✓
  • More than 100 people came. → comparing quantities ✓
  • I'd rather walk than drive. → comparing options ✓
  • This is better than that. → comparing quality ✓
  • He runs faster than anyone. → comparing speed ✓

Comparison Chart

Word Definition Trick to Remember Example Sentence
Then Time, sequence, or consequence thEn = timE "First this, then that."
Than Comparison between things thAn = compArison "Better than before."

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

❌ Incorrect:

"She is taller then me."

✓ Correct:

"She is taller than me."

Why? We're comparing heights—use "than."
❌ Incorrect:

"First this, than that."

✓ Correct:

"First this, then that."

Why? We're talking about sequence—use "then."
❌ Incorrect:

"I'd rather walk then drive."

✓ Correct:

"I'd rather walk than drive."

Why? "Rather...than" compares two options—use "than."
❌ Incorrect:

"More then 100 people came."

✓ Correct:

"More than 100 people came."

Why? "More than" is a comparison—use "than."
❌ Incorrect:

"We ate lunch, than left."

✓ Correct:

"We ate lunch, then left."

Why? This describes a sequence of events—use "then."

Quick Tips

💡 Letter Match Trick

thAn = compArison. thEn = timE/sEquence.

✅ Comparison Test

Are you comparing two things? Use "than." Talking about when or what's next? Use "then."

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it "rather then" or "rather than"?

Always "rather than" (comparison). "I'd rather read than watch TV." You're comparing two activities.

Is it "more then" or "more than"?

Always "more than" when comparing quantities. "More than 50 people attended."

Can a sentence have both?

Yes! "If you're older than 18, then you can vote." "Than" compares ages; "then" indicates the consequence.

What about "other then" or "other than"?

Always "other than" (comparing/excluding). "I have nothing other than this."

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