Meaning of Than
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
In simple words: Used to compare two things.
Than in a sentence
- I would rather read books than watch TV.
- She is taller than her brother.
- This cake is better than the one we made yesterday.
- I like apples more than oranges.
- He prefers coffee than tea.
How to use Than
Usually used in comparisons. Avoid using in affirmative sentences without a comparative element.
Grammar pattern
than + comparative adjective or noun
Memory hint
Think of 'than' as in 'greater than' when comparing sizes.
Related words
Collocations with Than
- better than
- taller than
- more expensive than
Synonyms for Than
- compared to
- in comparison with
Common mistakes with Than
- Using 'then' instead of 'than' for comparisons.
- Forgetting to include a comparative adjective when using 'than'.
Than appears in
More words like Than
- AbandonB2
To leave someone or something and never return to them.
- AbilityA2
the fact that somebody/something is able to do something
- AbleA2
having the skill, intelligence, opportunity, etc. needed to do something
- AbroadA2
In or to a country that is not one's own.
- AbsoluteB2
total and complete
- AbsolutelyB1
used to emphasize that something is completely true
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Frequently asked questions about Than
What does Than mean?
Used to compare two things.
What is the definition of Than?
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
How do you use Than in a sentence?
I would rather read books than watch TV.
Can you give another example of Than?
She is taller than her brother.
What are synonyms for Than?
Common alternatives include compared to, in comparison with.
What words go with Than?
It commonly pairs with better than, taller than, more expensive than.
What are common mistakes when using Than?
Using 'then' instead of 'than' for comparisons. Forgetting to include a comparative adjective when using 'than'.
How do you pronounce Than?
US: /["/ðən//ðæn/"]/, UK: /["/ðən//ðæn/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use Than?
Usually used in comparisons. Avoid using in affirmative sentences without a comparative element.
What CEFR level is Than?
"Than" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.
