Then vs. Than

"Then" and "than" are two words that are easy to mix up, but they have very different meanings. Once you learn the simple rule that separates them, you'll be able to use them with confidence.

The Basic Rule: Time vs. Comparison

Here's the one thing you need to remember:

• Then is about time or sequence.
• Than is about comparison.

That's it. This one simple rule will solve 99% of your "then" vs. "than" problems.

Then: For Time and Sequence

Use then when you're talking about when something happens or what happens next.

For Time

• First, we'll go to the store, and then we'll get dinner.
• Back then, things were much simpler.
• I'll see you then.

For a Consequence

• If you finish your homework, then you can watch TV.
• Think first, then speak.

A Simple Memory Trick

Both "then" and "time" have a "t" and an "e."

Than: For Comparison

Use than when you're comparing two or more things.

For Direct Comparisons

• She is taller than her brother.
• This is more expensive than that one.
• It's better to be safe than sorry.
• I'd rather have coffee than tea.

A Simple Memory Trick

Both "than" and "comparison" have an "a."

Common Mix-Ups

"Different Than" or "Different From"?

In American English, "different than" is common and widely accepted. In British English, "different from" is preferred. Both are generally considered correct.

"No sooner...than"

This is a specific phrase that always uses "than."

• Example: "No sooner had I sat down than the phone rang."

A Quick Test

1. Are you talking about time or what happens next? → Use then.
2. Are you comparing two things? → Use than.

Test Yourself

Choose the right word:

1. She's smarter (then/than) she looks.
2. First, we'll do our homework, and (then/than) we'll play video games.
3. I'd rather be early (then/than) late.
4. First comes love, (then/than) comes marriage.
5. There's nothing worse (then/than) a long commute.
6. If you're ready, (then/than) let's go.
7. More (then/than) 100 people showed up.
8. Back (then/than), we didn't have the internet.
9. She's younger (then/than) I am.
10. Finish your dinner, and (then/than) we can have dessert.

Answer Key: 1. than, 2. then, 3. than, 4. then, 5. than, 6. then, 7. than, 8. then, 9. than, 10. then

Remember: Then is for time, than is for comparison. It's easier than you thought, and then you'll get it right every time!