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  4. Then vs. Than
Commonly Confused Words

Then vs. Than

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People often mix up then and than, even native speakers. But they have very different meanings.

Then

Then is used to talk about time, order, or results. It tells us what happens next, or what happened at a certain time.

  • We had dinner, then watched a movie.
  • I’ll call you later, then we can decide.
  • If you study, then you’ll pass the test.

Use then when you're talking about what happens next, or about a result (if... then...).

Than

Than is used to compare: it shows a difference between two things.

  • She's taller than her brother.
  • This phone is cheaper than the other one.
  • I’d rather stay home than go out tonight.

Use than when you're comparing one thing to another.

💡 Tip

The “a” in than is for “compAre.” If you’re not comparing, use then.

Test your knowledge 📝

Question 1 sur 8Score: 0/8

We went to the store, ___ we stopped for coffee.

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