Than vs. Then: What's the Difference?
Learn when than introduces a comparison and when then refers to time or a result, with examples, simple tests, a quiz, and FAQs.
Than is used in comparisons and after words such as more, less, better, and rather. Then usually refers to time, sequence, or a result: first this, then that; if this, then that. The words sound similar but perform different jobs.
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A pricing page claims the new plan is “faster then the old one.” Because the sentence compares two plans, the correct word is than.
Than vs. Then at a glance
| Word | Typical role | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| than | Conjunction or preposition | introduces the second part of a comparison | The revised process is faster than the original one. |
| then | Adverb, adjective, or noun | at that time; next; in that case | Finish the review, then send the document. |
How to use than
Than connects unequal or contrasting items. It commonly follows comparative adjectives and adverbs as well as phrases such as other than and rather than.
The revised process is faster than the original one.
How to use then
Then locates an event in time, orders steps, or introduces a consequence. It can also describe a former state, as in the then manager.
Finish the review, then send the document.
Rules that make the choice easier
Use than for comparisons
Look for comparative signals such as taller, faster, more, less, better, worse, or rather.
Use then for time and order
If the meaning is next, afterward, or at that time, then is the correct choice.
Use then for a logical result
In if-then reasoning, then introduces what follows from the condition, even when the word is omitted in ordinary prose.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not use then after a comparative adjective.
- Do not use than merely because two things appear in the sentence.
- Remember that then can express a result as well as a moment in time.
Quick practice
1. This route is shorter ___ the highway.
Answer: than
2. We ate dinner and ___ watched a film.
Answer: then
3. If the light is red, ___ stop.
Answer: then
Frequently asked questions
What is the basic difference between than and then?
Than compares; then refers to time, sequence, or a result.
Is it better than or better then?
Better than is correct because better creates a comparison.
Is it every now and then or than?
Every now and then is correct because the phrase concerns occasional time.
Does then always mean next?
No. It can also mean at that time or in that case.