Then vs. Than: The correct use

Key takeaways:

  • Use “then” to refer to time, sequences, or consequences (e.g., "We went to dinner, and then we saw a movie").

  • Use “than” to make comparisons (e.g., "She is taller than her brother").

  • Mixing up “then” and “than” is a common mistake but easy to fix with practice.

Part of the series Grammar Debugged—English for Devs

“Then” and “than” may sound similar, but they have distinct meanings. “Then” relates to time or sequence, while “than” is used for comparisons. This Answer will clarify their correct usage with examples to avoid common mistakes.

Then vs. than
Then vs. than

When to use Then

“Then” is primarily used in the following contexts:

  1. Time or sequence: Refers to what happens next in time.

  2. Consequences or results: Refers to something happening as a result.

  3. At that time: Refers to a specific time in the past or future.

When to use Than

“Than” is used to make comparisons.

  1. Comparing quantities or qualities.

  2. Expressing preferences.

Quick test

Choose the correct word (then or than) for each sentence:

  1. I’d rather stay home ___ go out tonight.

  1. Finish your work first, and ___ we’ll leave.

  1. She is more organized ___ her colleague.

  1. Back ___, things were different.

Common mistakes

Here are some frequent errors and how to avoid them:

  1. Using then instead of than:

    1. Incorrect: She is smarter then her classmates.

    2. Correct: She is smarter than her classmates.

  2. Using than instead of then:

    1. Incorrect: We went to the park, than we went home.

    2. Correct: We went to the park, then we went home.

  3. Switching them in conditional sentences:

    1. Incorrect: If you’re tired, than take a nap.

    2. Correct: If you’re tired, then take a nap.

Than vs. Then

Word

Function

Examples

Then

Refers to time, sequence, or consequence

We ate dinner, then we watched TV.

Than

Used for comparisons

She is faster than her opponent.

Conclusion

Mastering “then” and “than” can make a big difference in your writing and communication. Remember, “then” deals with time and consequences, while “than” is used for comparisons. Practice using these words in your daily conversations or writing to reinforce your understanding!

Test your understanding: then vs. than

Match the examples that demonstrate the difference between then vs. than:

Match The Answer
Select an option from the left-hand side

If you’re hungry, ___ grab a snack.

then

He prefers coffee over tea more ___ anything else.

than

Let’s meet at 4 p.m., ___ we can go to the store.

If you’re done, ___ you should head to the meeting room.

This book is far more interesting ___ the last one I read.

Master the nuances of grammar and elevate your writing skills with this comprehensive course: Grokking the Technical Writing Process—your gateway to mastering tricky topics like 'then' vs. 'than' and beyond!

Frequently asked questions

Haven’t found what you were looking for? Contact Us

Do you say better then or better than?

The correct phrase is “better than.” “Then” is used for time-related comparisons (e.g., “I will go to the store then.”). So, use “better than” when comparing things or qualities.

Is it OK then or OK than?

The correct phrase is “OK then.” “Than” is used for comparisons (e.g., “better than,” “worse than”), while “then” is used to indicate time or a result.

So, when you want to express agreement or a conclusion, use “OK then.”

Is it better than I or better then I?

The correct phrase is “better than I.” “Then” is used for time or sequence (e.g., “better then I expected” would be incorrect in this case).

What is an example of “rather than” vs. “rather then”?

  • Rather than (correct for comparisons):

  • I prefer coffee rather than tea.

  • Rather then (incorrect; “then” relates to time):

  • I prefer coffee rather then tea. (incorrect)

Tip: Use rather than for choices and comparisons.

Is it “none other than” or “none other then”?

  • “None other than” is correct. It emphasizes importance or surprise.
    Example: The winner was none other than my best friend!
  • “None other then” is incorrect. “Then” refers to time, not emphasis.

To enhance technical writing and minimize common grammar mistakes, continue exploring these topics:

Free AI Mock Interviews
Coding Interview
Coding PatternsFree Interview
Gain insights and practical experience with coding patterns through targeted MCQs and coding problems, designed to match and challenge your expertise level.
System Design
YouTubeFree Interview
Learn to design a video streaming platform like YouTube by tackling functional and non-functional requirements, core components, and high-level to detailed design challenges.

Free Resources

Copyright ©2025 Educative, Inc. All rights reserved