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Then vs. Than: Difference, Examples, and Quick Check
Then relates to time or sequence; than is used for comparisons. See the difference in context and check your own sentence with iGrammar. Learn the difference in context, compare the examples, and then check your own sentence in the editor. The focused result helps you review the likely word-choice issue without replacing your judgment about the meaning you want to.
No account is required for the web editor. Review every suggestion before using it.
How to use the then vs than
- 1
Paste your then vs than or draft.
- 2
Run the focused iGrammar check.
- 3
Review, apply, or copy the result.
See a then vs than example
The example below shows the kind of improvement to review—not a promise that every text will receive the same changes.
Before
This version is clearer then the first one, and then we can publish it.
After
This version is clearer than the first one, and then we can publish it.
Comparison
Than follows clearer to compare two versions.
Sequence
Then is correct when describing what happens next.
Context
The surrounding words show two different meanings in one sentence.
What this checker looks for
Who uses it?
Tips for better writing
- Use than after comparative words such as better or clearer.
- Use then for next, afterward, or at that time.
- Read the sentence aloud and identify whether it compares or sequences.
- Identify the grammatical role or meaning the sentence needs before choosing a word.
- Replace the confusing word with a plain-language phrase to test the meaning.
- Read the complete sentence rather than judging the word in isolation.
- Keep a personal example of the distinction you often forget.
Frequently asked questions
When should I use than?
Use than when comparing people, things, amounts, or qualities.
When should I use then?
Use then for time, sequence, or a result such as if this, then that.
Why does spellcheck miss this error?
Both words are spelled correctly, so the sentence context is needed to identify the intended word.
Why are these words easy to confuse?
They look or sound similar, but their meanings or grammatical roles differ. Reading the surrounding sentence usually reveals which form fits.
Can the checker explain the difference?
The page provides examples and explanations, and the editor can highlight the likely issue in the sentence you submit.
Can I use this for a longer paragraph?
Yes. You can paste a paragraph, but focus on the sentence containing the confusing word when reviewing the explanation.
Will the checker always choose the right word?
It can make a useful suggestion, but context matters. Review the explanation and confirm the final choice before applying it.
Quick guide: Then vs. Than: Difference, Examples, and Quick Check
| Form | Use it when | Example |
|---|---|---|
| then | Refers to time or sequence. | Finish the draft, then send it. |
| than | Used for comparisons. | This version is clearer than the first. |
Mini quiz
Which form fits: “This version is clearer ___ the first.”
How iGrammar helps
iGrammar keeps the input, focused context, suggestions, explanations, and corrected output in one workspace. You decide which changes to apply and can continue with rewriting, summarizing, tone improvement, or another focused check.
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