Common Grammar Mistakes: "Then" vs "Than"

One of the most common grammatical errors that people make is confusing the words "then" and "than." Although they sound similar, they have different meanings and functions in a sentence. Understanding the difference between these two words can significantly improve your writing and communication skills.

1. "Then"

The word "then" is commonly used as an adverb, indicating a time or order of events. It often refers to a specific point in time, whether it's in the past, present, or future. Here are a few examples:

• I woke up early in the morning, then I went for a jog.
• First, we need to finish this project, and then we can celebrate.
• If it rains, then we will have to cancel our outdoor picnic.

2. "Than"

The word "than" is used as a conjunction, typically in making comparisons between two or more things. It indicates a difference in degree or quality. Here are a few examples:

• She is taller than her brother.
• I prefer tea rather than coffee.
• He would rather stay at home than go to the party.

It is crucial to remember that "than" is used when comparing things, while "then" relates to time or order of events.

Linguix grammar checker provides a convenient solution to avoid these common mistakes and enhance your writing skills.

By understanding the difference between "then" and "than," you can easily eliminate this common grammar mistake from your writing. Practice using them correctly, and soon it will become second nature to you. With the help of tools like the Linguix grammar checker, you can improve your writing even further by receiving real-time suggestions and corrections.