Grammar 101: Then vs. Than

Because “then” and “than” are homophones (words that sound alike), they are often confused. Some tips on telling them apart.

Then 

Is an adverb: A word that describes, gives more information about a verb, adjective, adverb or phrase. When spoken it rhymes with 'hen'.

Than 

Is a preposition or conjunction: A word that is used before a noun, a noun phrase, or a pronoun, connecting it to another word. When spoken it rhymes with 'man'.

Then 

• At that time (in the past or in the future). 

• Next or after that. 

• In addition. 

Than 

• Used to join two parts of a comparison. 

• Used with “more” or “less” to compare numbers or amounts.

Then 

Could also mean (synonyms): Again, later, next, at that moment, soon after, at that time. 

Than 

There are no synonyms for this word

Then 

• The toddler touched my cheek and then pinched it hard. 

• Last night it rained and then turned cold and humid. 

• She walked away then, leaving all her belongings behind. 

• “What do you hope to achieve from this, then?” she asked him out of frustration. 

• Thank you,” Jane said and then blushed because she wasn’t used to compliments. 

Than 

• I think she loves Indian food more than I do. 

• She performed much better than I expected. 

• I can cook dinner in less than an hour. 

• Contrary to popular belief, I believe that Jane is a better actress than Kim. 

• Do you think the colour red suits me better than blue?