What? I know it can be confusing – figuring out when to use than instead of then. In fact, there are many confusing words in the English language. Some sound the same, but are spelled differently and mean different things. Some don’t sound the same, are spelled the same but mean something different. Mastering the English language is a challenge. Don’t worry about mastering the language, just make sure you’re using the right words when you’re writing and you’ll be fine.
So, when do you use then instead of than? The general rule is that “than” is used when you are doing a comparison. This yard is bigger than that one. That flower is prettier than yours.
Then has numerous meanings. It can indicate a point of time – I will be ready then. It can mean next or afterward – I will go to the bank then the store. It can also mean in addition, also, on top of that – She told me to leave, and then that I owed her money. Finally, then can also mean in that case or therefore – If you want to ride, then you’ll have to put on your seat belt.
Than is only used in comparisons. If you’re not comparing something, you have to use then. What could be easier than that explanation?
Another word that gives people problems is their, there, or they’re. "There" is a location –
The baby is over there. "Their" is possessive – I went to their house. "They're" is "they are" – They're watching us. The trick to using the right word is to slow down and think about why you’re using the word. Are you trying to demonstrate a location, indicate a possession or form a contraction? Remember to check trouble words like this during the proofreading process.
“You’re” and “your” are often confused as well. “Your” is possessive while “you’re” means you are. You’re wearing your shirt inside out. The same rule applies to “it’s” and “its” – “its” is possessive and “it’s” represents it is. It’s important to use the safety features developed by its manufacturer.
Many of these words are misused primarily because as writers and proofreaders, we are in too big of a hurry. If we slow down and think about the words we are using as we write, chances are we won’t have many corrections to make during the proofreading process. In addition, slow down while proofreading to ensure a thorough and complete job. Read your piece backwards and you’re sure to pick up misused as well as misspelled words.
Oh and lastly, irregardless is not a word. Always use regardless. Take care in choosing your words and you’ll be writing wisely.
Laurie Dart, owner of Writing Wisely, provides writing and editing services to entrepreneurs and small business owners from her home office in Portland Oregon. Some of her recent projects include press releases, e-book editing and e-course development. She is the author of the Everyday Guide to Writing Wisely and co-author of The Everyday Guide to Writing and Marketing Your e-book Wisely. For more info, visit http://www.writingwisely.com.
