Than Vs. Then: What's The Difference? A Complete Guide To Using These Common Words Correctly

Ever find yourself tangled up in sentences like "I’m taller than him" or "First, I’ll do this, then I’ll do that"? If yes, you're not alone! These two small words—"than" and "then"—cause a lot of confusion even among native speakers and learners alike. Well, don’t worry! Today, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about "than" and "then" so you can use them confidently and correctly every time.

Understanding "Than" and "Then": What Are They?

Before diving into the detailed differences, let’s start with the basics. Both "than" and "then" sound similar, but they serve very different purposes in a sentence. Recognizing their function helps prevent common mistakes and boosts your writing clarity.

What is "Than"?

"Than" is a conjunction (a word that connects parts of a sentence) used chiefly in comparisons, highlighting differences between two things or people.

What is "Then"?

"Then" is an adverb (a word that modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs), and it often relates to time, sequence, or consequence.

Detailed Breakdown: Comparing "Than" and "Then"

Here's a clear, detailed table to help you grasp the key differences, including their primary functions, typical uses, and examples.

Feature	Than	Then
Part of Speech	Conjunction	Adverb
Main Function	Used for comparisons	Indicates sequence/time, or consequence
Typical Usage	Comparing two things or people	Showing what happens next, or emphasizing time
Common Phrases	"Better than," "More than," "Less than"	"Then I went," "If this, then that"
Example Sentences	"She is taller than her brother."	"First, do your homework. Then, you can play."
	"This cake is tastier than the one before."	"Back then, things were simpler."

How to Use "Than" Correctly

"Than" often appears in comparisons. Here are some scenarios to remember:

When comparing two or more things, use "than":
- Example: "This book is more interesting than that one."
To compare qualities:
- Example: "He runs faster than I do."
When using comparative adjectives or adverbs:
- Examples: "She is more talented than her peers." / "This task is less complicated than it seems."

Steps for Using "Than" Properly

Identify two items being compared.
Use "than" to link them.
Before "than", usually, you’ll find a comparative adjective or adverb (e.g., bigger, faster, more beautiful).
Remember, no comma is needed before "than".

How to Use "Then" Correctly

"Then" is primarily used to indicate sequence or consequence:

To show what happens next:
- Example: "Finish your homework, then you can watch TV."
To describe a point in time in the past or future:
- Example: "Back then, I didn’t know much about grammar."
To express a result or consequence:
- Example: "If you miss the bus, then you'll have to walk."

Steps for Using "Then" Correctly

Decide if you're talking about order/time or consequence.
Use "then" to show what comes after or as a result.
For sequencing, "then" usually appears at the beginning or middle of the clause.

Putting It All Together: Summary Table

Aspect	Than	Then
Function	Compare two items or qualities	Show sequence, time, or consequence
Common context	Comparative sentences	Sequential or causal sentences
Example	"She is taller than him."	"First, do this. Then, do that."
Key Tip	Look for comparison adjectives or adverbs	Look for order or result keyword

Tips for Success: Mastering "Than" and "Then"

Always double-check your sentence:
- Are you comparing two things? Use "than".
- Are you talking about order or cause/effect? Use "then".
Remember: "Than" never starts a sentence, it's always used as part of a comparison.
Use simple sentences first to practice:
- "He is taller than I am."
- "I will go to the store, then I will cook dinner."

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Mistake	How to Fix It	Example Correction
Confusing "then" with "than"	Think comparison vs. sequence	Incorrect: "He is smarter then her." Correct: "He is smarter than her."
Using "then" in comparisons	Remember: "then" relates to sequence	Incorrect: "Her dress is prettier then mine." Correct: "Her dress is prettier than mine."
Starting a comparison with "then"	Always use "than" for comparison	Incorrect: "Then he is taller." Correct: "Than he is taller." (but better to rephrase to avoid starting with comparison)

Similar Variations and Common Phrases

"Than" often appears in expressions:
- "Better than," "More than," "Less than," "Fewer than."
"Then" frequently used in idiomatic phrases:
- "Back then," "When then," "And then," "If then."

Examples:

"I’d rather have coffee than tea."
"She knew what to do, then she took action."
"It was tough back then, but we got through."

Why Does Proper Usage Matter?

Using "than" and "then" correctly isn’t just about grammar pedantry. It makes your writing clearer and your meaning unmistakable. Imagine saying "I like pizza more then burgers"—it changes the meaning completely, from a comparison to a time-based statement, or worse, creates confusion. Correct usage gives your message power and professionalism.

Practice Makes Perfect: Exercises to Reinforce Your Skills

1. Fill-in-the-blank

Choose the right word: "than" or "then".

I want to be taller ______ my brother.
First, turn off the lights, ______ leave the room.
She is smarter ______ she was last year.
We arrived late, ______ the movie had already started.
This cookie is sweeter ______ the one I ate yesterday.

2. Error Correction

Identify and correct the mistake:

He is smarter then her.
I will go to the park, then I will feed the dog.
Back then, I didn't know much about writing.
She is kinder then her sister.
Finish your homework, then you can go outside.

3. Identification

Is the highlighted word correct? Why or why not?

"Back then, I used to walk to school." (Correct)
"He is taller then his cousin." (Incorrect, should be "than")
"First, wash your hands. Then, dry them." (Correct)
"It's more fun than I thought." (Correct)

4. Sentence Construction

Create sentences using "than" and "then" based on the prompts:

Comparing two sports: _______________
Describing what happens after lunch: _______________
Talking about past times: _______________
Showing a result or consequence: _______________

5. Category Matching

Match the correct word to each category:

Comparison (use "than")	Sequence/Time/Result (use "then")
He runs faster ______ I do.	First, clean your room. ______ watch TV.
The movie was better ______ I expected.	Finish your homework. ______ go outside.
This exam is easier ______ the last one.	Back ______, life was simpler.

Wrap-up: Final Takeaways

"Than" is your go-to word for comparisons. Use it when highlighting differences.
"Then" helps tell a story or sequence — what happens next or as a result.
Notice the context: Is the sentence comparing, or indicating order? That’s your cue!
Practice regularly with exercises, and review common mistakes to avoid pitfalls.
Remember, clear communication relies on choosing the right word at the right time.

Why Mastering "Than" and "Then" Helps You Shine

Getting "than" and "then" right isn't just grammar tidiness—it's about making your messages clearer and more impactful. Whether you're writing an essay, an email, or a casual message, using these words correctly shows you care about precision and understanding. So next time you write, take a moment to ask: Is this comparison, or is this a sequence? If you get it right, your readers will thank you!

Now, go ahead and practice! With a little effort, you'll master "than" and "then" in no time. Your writing will be sharper, clearer, and more professional—guaranteed.

Than vs. Then: What’s the Difference? A Complete Guide to Using These Common Words Correctly