What is the difference between THEN and THAN?

Speaking a language correctly usually means using the right words and the right syntax. Knowing when to use the appropriate word is more important than having an excellent vocabulary and not knowing what word to use.

There are many words that are used incorrectly by people. That may be because of similar spellings, or similar pronunciations. Lets look at THEN and THAN. These words are often used incorrectly by many people who overlook the difference in spelling.

'Then' is used when referring to time or a condition. Here are a few sentences that may help bring out the meaning of then.

• Finish your homework and then go out to play.
• I have to submit this document only then can I say I've finished work for the day.
• I'm first going to have some soup and then some dessert.
• If they agree to my terms and conditions, then I'll take up that offer.
• If 1 is true then 2 is false. (if and then used in programming logic.)
• First we bake the cake, and then we ice it.
• She was silent for a moment, and then she said "I will go with you."

'Than' is used when you are comparing one thing with another. Here are a few sentences that will bring out the meaning-

• I'd rather read a book than watch TV.
• This dress is better than that one.
• This month's sales are better than last month's sales. (sales this month are better than sales last month)
• Passive smoking is worse than actually smoking a cigerette.
• I prefer to stay indoors rather than get wet in the rain.