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Then
Versus Than (plus appropriate pronouns)
A biz tip reader wants to know the difference between than and then.
Than is a conjunction and is normally used with
comparisons.
Then is an adverb meaning soon afterward.
Example
He believes a consultant could prepare a better report than
we.* (A comparison is indicated.)
Example
After hearing his news, we then began to question the estimated
costs for the project. (A time frame is indicated.)
Incorrect
Can we meet sooner then Saturday?
Correct
Can we meet sooner than Saturday?
Note: Then is often the cause of many run-on sentences.
Incorrect
The presentation went on for over an hour then the speaker
asked for questions.
Correct
The presentation went on for over an hour. Then the speaker
asked for questions.
* Some readers may be shocked by the use of the word we in
this example. However, whenever a pronoun follows than or as, you must mentally supply the missing word.
Incorrect
He believes a consultant could prepare a better report than
us.
Correct
He believes a consultant could prepare a better report than
we (can).
Incorrect
He is not as experienced as him.
Correct
He is not as experienced as he. (The word is mentally follows
the word is.)
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