The Difference Between "Then" and "Than" In Written English

The English language has several subtleties, especially when it comes to similar-sounding words. Two of these kinds of words can often get mixed up, primarily while writing or typing. A perfect example of this is the use of "then" and "than". Both words sound rather similar but differ greatly in meaning. Knowing the difference between these two words can elevate you from a struggling to an experienced English language writer/speaker.

When To Use "Then"

In most cases, "then" is used as an adverb, often to describe a specific point in time. It is an indictor of what comes next, when speaking about events that take place one after another. Let's take a look at some of the common use-cases for "then":

1. To show time or the order of events:

   1. For example: We'll go there, and then we will get dinner.

   2. In this case, the order of events is 1. go to location and 2. get dinner.
      

2. To mean "in that case" or "in addition"

   1. For example: If that's actually what happened, then we will have a problem.

   2. Here, the first part of the sentence will lead to the second, joined by the word "then". The second part is a result of the first.

   3. It is also used to provide further context or emphasize another point.
      

3. As a conjunction for conditional statements

   1. For example: If you finish your homework, then we can go watch a movie.

   2. The condition here is the completion of homework, which will result in them going for a movie.

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When To Use "Than"

Unlike "then," "than" is used as a conjunction in comparisons. When two things are compared to each other, "than" is used.

1. To make comparisons

   1. For example: He is taller than his cousin.

   2. Here, the comparison is between one person and his cousin. "Than" is used to help explain the difference in height.
      

2. For specifically quantitative comparisons

   1. For example: This class is more interesting than that one.

   2. This is very similar to the previous point. A special note to make is that "than" is also used when comparing amounts or quantities.

Remember The Difference

"Then" almost always relates to time, while "than" is a comparison. If the sentence you are writing involves a comparison, "than" is the correct choice. If not, "then" will usually be correct.

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