
Than vs Then: Usage Difference Guide
Clear guide to than vs then with comparison vs sequence rule, 20+ examples, a mnemonic that sticks, and a self-check exercise for writers of every level.
The exact change
"Rather than trips many writers because rather sounds like a sequence cue. It is not. The phrase is a stable comparison construction that has used than for centuries." Garner's Modern English Usage
Many writers hesitate over "rather than" because "rather" can feel like it signals a sequence. It does not. The phrase is a long-established comparison construction and always takes "than."
Why this is better
Quote attributed to Garner's Modern English Usage cannot be verified anywhere and does not match Garner's documented style or any known passage. This is an unverified direct quotation falsely attribute
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