Then vs. Than: A Simple Guide to Never Mix Them Up Again

Struggling with then vs than usage? You’re not alone. This common grammar dilemma is simpler than it seems. “Then” relates to time or sequence, while “than” is used for comparisons. Mastering this distinction is crucial for clear communication and scoring high in competitive exams. Read on for a definitive guide with over 100 examples to cement your understanding.

Introduction: Conquering the Then vs Than Usage Challenge

The words “then” and “than” are among the most frequently confused pairs in the English language. Incorrect then vs than usage can undermine the professionalism of your writing and lead to point deductions in critical exams. This guide will provide a crystal-clear distinction, complete with extensive examples and strategic tips to ensure you never second-guess yourself again. By understanding the core concepts of time/sequence versus comparison, you can eliminate this error permanently.

The Fundamental Difference: Then vs. Than

• Then (Adverb): Relates to time or the sequence of events. Think of it as answering the questions “when?” or “what next?”.
• Than (Conjunction/Preposition): Used for making comparisons between two entities. It introduces the element that is being compared.

100 Examples of Then vs. Than Usage

Examples with “Then” (Time & Sequence)

1. Finish your homework, and then you can watch TV.
2. First, we went to the store; then, we went home.
3. Back then, life was much simpler.
4. If it rains, then the picnic will be canceled.
5. She was younger then.
6. Mix the dry ingredients, then add the milk.
7. The then president made the announcement.
8. See you then!
9. Until then, take care.
10. He thought for a moment, then answered.
11. Every now and then, I like to go for a long walk.
12. The price was lower back then.
13. What happened then?
14. First comes love, then comes marriage.
15. If you believe in yourself, then you can achieve anything.
16. He was then promoted to manager.
17. The movie starts at 7, so I’ll see you then.
18. She was much happier then.
19. Read the instructions carefully, then begin the test.
20. And then, everyone applauded.
21. By then, it was too late.
22. He was a student then.
23. If that’s the case, then I agree.
24. From then on, everything changed.
25. Wait for the light to turn green, then go.
26. The then-current policy was ineffective.
27. What did you do then?
28. I’ll be ready at 8; call me then.
29. First, I’ll finish this chapter, then I’ll take a break.
30. Since then, we have been good friends.
31. He was taller than me even then.
32. If you finish early, then you can leave.
33. The team was stronger then.
34. Now and then, I think about it.
35. She was the then-reigning champion.
36. What will you do then?
37. He smiled, then laughed.
38. Until then, goodbye.
39. The rules were different then.
40. I’ll be in my office; come see me then.
41. First, we need a plan, then we can act.
42. Just then, the phone rang.
43. It was then that I realized the truth.
44. Now and then, he visits his old neighborhood.
45. The then government passed the law.
46. What should I do then?
47. He took a deep breath, then jumped.
48. I’ll be free at 3 PM; let’s meet then.
49. If you’re sure, then proceed.
50. Well, that was then, and this is now.

Examples with “Than” (Comparison)

51. She is taller than her brother.
52. I would rather read than watch television.
53. This car is more expensive than that one.
54. He has more than enough money.
55. It is better to be safe than sorry.
56. My score was higher than yours.
57. She is a better runner than I am.
58. Nothing is more important than health.
59. He arrived earlier than expected.
60. This task is easier than I thought.
61. I like coffee more than tea.
62. There were fewer than ten people there.
63. She is smarter than anyone I know.
64. The trip took longer than planned.
65. He would sooner quit than apologize.
66. This is much larger than that.
67. I have less than five dollars.
68. She is no other than the CEO.
69. His new book is different than his last one.
70. You are closer to me than a friend.
71. It’s hotter today than it was yesterday.
72. I’d prefer pasta than pizza tonight.
73. He is stronger than he looks.
74. There is no one I trust more than you.
75. The meeting ended sooner than anticipated.
76. This path is safer than the other one.
77. She has more experience than the other candidates.
78. It’s no more than a mile away.
79. He is wiser than his years.
80. I cannot do other than agree.
81. Your idea is better than mine.
82. The project cost more than the budget.
83. She is more than a teacher; she is a mentor.
84. He is nothing other than a genius.
85. This cake is sweeter than I like.
86. I have known her for more than a decade.
87. He is less than honest sometimes.
88. There are more than a hundred options.
89. It was easier said than done.
90. I would rather walk than drive in this traffic.
91. Her performance was better than ever.
92. This is bigger than both of us.
93. He has more followers than I do.
94. It’s farther than you think.
95. She is other than what she seems.
96. There is no choice other than to wait.
97. This is more complex than a simple yes or no.
98. I have no greater friend than you.
99. The result was better than we hoped.
100. He is more of a philosopher than a writer.

Then vs. Than Usage: Important Tips for Students and Competitive Exam Candidates

1. The Substitution Test: If you can replace the word with “at that time” or “next,” use then. If you are comparing two things, use than.
   • Example: I will finish my work (then/than) go to sleep. (Can you say “I will finish my work next go to sleep”? Yes. So, use then.)
2. The Comparison Trigger: Words like “more,” “less,” “older,” “better,” “rather,” “sooner,” and “other” almost always signal that “than” will follow.
   • Example: He is more qualified than the other applicant.
3. Watch for “Other than” and “Rather than”: These common phrases always use “than.” “Other then” or “rather then” are always incorrect.
4. Pronunciation Note: While often pronounced similarly in casual speech, “than” is pronounced with a softer, shorter ‘a’ sound (like in “cat”), and “then” has a longer ‘e’ sound (like in “pen”). Paying attention to this can help in dictation tests.

FAQs on Then vs. Than Usage

Q1: Is it “no other then” or “no other than”?
It is always “no other than.” This phrase is used for comparison to mean “none except.” Example: It was no other than the principal himself.

Q2: What is the rule for “rather then” vs. “rather than”?
The correct phrase is always “rather than,” which is used to express a preference between two options. Example: I would prefer to walk rather than drive.

Q3: Can “then” ever be used in a comparison?
No, “then” is never used to make a direct comparison. Its roles are strictly related to time, sequence, and consequence. Using “then” in a comparison, like “She is smarter then him,” is grammatically incorrect. The correct word is “than.”

Conclusion: Mastering Then vs Than Usage for Good

Mastering the distinction between then vs than usage is a fundamental step toward polished and accurate writing. By remembering that “then” is for time and “than” is for comparison, you can confidently navigate this common grammatical pitfall. Use the extensive examples and tips provided here as a permanent reference. With this knowledge, your writing will be clearer, more professional, and, most importantly, correct.

Disclaimer

This article is intended as a grammatical guide. Specific style guides or regional dialects may have nuanced preferences, but the rules outlined here represent standard, formal English usage.

Also Read: Linking Verbs: The Ultimate Guide to Identification and Usage

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