The words ‘then’ and ‘than’ look similar, but their uses are very different. “Then,” often used as an adverb, relates to time –afterwards, at that time, or as a consequence of. The word “than” is a conjunction that introduces a comparison. It is most often used with comparatives and words like more, less and fewer.
Examples using “then:”
Go to the end of the road, then turn left.
If you don’t like strawberries, then don’t buy them
Times were easier then.
Examples using “than:”
Ellen is taller than Jane.
The population of the United States is greater than that of Canada.
Jason is a better cook than Anne.
Easy to remember: Use “then” for time. Use “than” to compare.
Next week, More on “than.” Rita Bay
