Than vs then
The words then and than can confuse people learning English because they sound similar, but they have different meanings. These two words are used in different ways, and it’s important to use them correctly. In this article, we will explain what each word means, how to use them, and give simple examples to make it easier to understand.
THEN
Then is an adverb that means next, after, or at that time. We use it when talking about the sequence of events, the result of something, or the time something happens. Then can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.
If you study hard, then you will pass the exam.
Back then, people didn’t have Internet at home.
We had lunch, then went to the park.
THAN
Than is a conjunction that means compared to or more than. We use it for making comparisons. Than appears in the middle of a sentence, between the things being compared.
She runs faster than her brother.
His house is bigger than mine.
Than and Comparatives
In English, we can use adjectives and adverbs to make comparisons. To use an adjective or adverb in a comparison, it needs to be in the comparative form. This is done by adding -er or by using the words more or less before the adjective or adverb.
Comparative Adjectives
The red shirt is cheaper than the blue one.
Comparative Adverbs
He arrived later than expected.
