Use than to introduce the second part of a comparison. Use then to talk about a time, the next step, or what follows from a condition.
Look for a comparison or a sequence
- Than for comparison. This cookie is wider than that one. The word introduces the cookie you’re comparing it with.
- Then for order. Let the cookies cool, then move them to the plate. The word introduces the next step.
- Then for time. We baked these last winter, and the cookies were smaller then. The word refers back to last winter.
Recognize then in a condition
In If the cookies stick, then use a spatula, then means in that case. You can also leave it out. The pattern no sooner … than uses than even though it talks about time, as in No sooner had the timer rung than the doorbell chimed. See conditional clauses for the if pattern and fewer vs. less for more examples of comparisons with than.
