Then vs Than

Then vs Than - Exercise

This exercise focuses on Then vs Than

Then

Definition: "Then" is an adverb used to indicate time or a sequence of events.

Usage:

⭐ To refer to a specific time: "We had lunch, and then we went for a walk."

⭐ To indicate the next step in a sequence: "First, mix the ingredients. Then, bake for 30 minutes."

⭐ As a synonym for "in that case": "If you're not coming, then I'll go alone."

Examples:

"I finished my homework and then watched TV."

"Turn left at the next corner, then you'll see the library."

Than

Definition: "Than" is a conjunction used for comparisons.

Usage:

⭐ To compare differences: "She is taller than her brother."

⭐ To contrast choices: "I would rather read a book than watch TV."

Examples:

"This dress is cheaper than that one."

"It's better to be safe than sorry."

Common Mistakes

Confusing Sequence with Comparison:

❌ Incorrect: "He is stronger then her."

✔️ Correct: "He is stronger than her."

Misusing Comparison in Sequences:

❌ Incorrect: "We will go to the park than the museum."

✔️ Correct: "We will go to the park then the museum."

Tips for Remembering

"Then" relates to time or order, think of "next."

"Than" involves comparison, think of "contrast."

Theory

Then

"Then" is used to refer to time. It shows when something happens. You can think of it as meaning "at that time" or "next."

Than

"Than" is used for comparisons. It helps to show differences between two things.

Rules

When to Use "Then"

⭐ Sequence of Events: Use "then" to show the order of actions.

Example: "I will finish my homework, then I will watch TV."

⭐ Point in Time: Use "then" to refer to a specific moment in time.

Example: "I was in school then."

⭐ Consequence: Use "then" to show what happens as a result.

Example: "If it rains, then we will stay indoors."

When to Use "Than"

⭐ Comparisons: Use "than" when comparing two things.

Example: "She is taller than her brother."

⭐ Preferences: Use "than" to show preference.

Example: "I would rather read a book than watch a movie."

Common Errors

Mixing Up "Then" and "Than"

❌ Incorrect: "She is smarter then him."

✔️ Correct: "She is smarter than him."

❌ Incorrect: "We will go to the park than eat lunch."

✔️ Correct: "We will go to the park then eat lunch."

Everyday Use

Conversations

Talking About Plans: "First, we will go shopping, then we will have lunch."

Making Comparisons: "I think ice cream is better than cake."

Writing

Describing a Day: "I woke up early, then I went for a run."

Expressing Preferences: "I like tea more than coffee."

Quick Reference

Sequence of events: "I will call you, then come over."

Point in time: "I was happy back then."

Consequence: "If you study, then you will pass."

Comparison: "She is taller than me."

Preference: "I prefer dogs more than cats."

FAQs

How can I remember the difference between "then" and "than"?

Think of "then" as related to time and "than" as related to comparisons.

Can "then" be used in comparisons?

No, "then" is used for time sequences and consequences, not comparisons.

What is a common mistake with "then" and "than"?

A common mistake is using "then" instead of "than" in comparisons, like "better then" instead of "better than."

Are "then" and "than" interchangeable?

No, they are not interchangeable. Each has a distinct use that should be followed.

Can you use "then" in the middle of a sentence?

Yes, "then" can be used in the middle of a sentence to show a sequence of events. Example: "We ate dinner, then we watched a movie."