than - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
than Word Meanings
- used to make a comparison
- indicating a difference between two things
- used in expressions of preference
than Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
than Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ðən/
US
/ðæn/
than Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'than' has no significant prefixes or suffixes; Historical origin: Old English 'þan' (meaning 'than') → Middle English; Memory image: Imagine two scales balancing differing weights, each representing a comparison.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my hand on the mug and push it lightly toward the table, feeling my wrist settle into the motion. Steam rises as my eyes move between two choices, and I sense a tiny difference pulling me toward one cup rather than the other. The move is deliberate, and I adjust my grip to keep control while the choice starts to form in my mind. That small tug in my head makes me feel how I use 'than' naturally when I talk about choices.
Real Context
Than is a conjunction used to introduce the second item in a comparison. It follows adjectives, adverbs, or phrases in the comparative form, as in taller than or more quickly than. It marks a difference between two things by showing one has more of a quality or is at a higher level. In everyday speech, it often pairs with negation or expressions of preference (I would rather go than stay; this option is better than that one). Learners should watch word order, since English places the comparative part before than, and avoid mixing it with other conjunctions in long sentences. Remember that 'than' is not used to introduce clauses or reasons.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: than follows the comparative form; don’t insert other conjunctions between the two items. Use as... as for equality. Avoid mixing with then. After than, the second item can be a noun, pronoun, or clause. Use shorter forms in informal speech. Keep the subject of both sides clear. Don't use than to explain reasons.
Common Misconceptions
- Than is a preposition; it can take a noun after it.
- You can always use 'more' before the adjective with 'than' (e. g., more bigger than).
- You can replace 'than' with 'then' in comparisons.
- Than can introduce a reason clause.
- The second item must always be a pronoun after than.
Thinking Differences
Native English speakers often picture a 'gap' between two items and place the second item after than; learners from languages without a clear comparative particle may misplace the second item or overuse 'than' with nouns.
Learning Tips
- Practice common collocations like 'taller than', 'shorter than', 'faster than'.
- Compare two items and ensure you have two elements after 'than'.
- Avoid 'more better'—use the standard 'more' with adjectives that take it.
- Use 'as... as' for equality, not 'than' in those cases.
- Watch pronoun case after verbs in the second clause (I am taller than he is).
- Remember than does not introduce a reason clause.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'than'?
A.Above
B.Comparison
C.Within
D.Below
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below correctly uses the word 'than'?
A.I am younger than my sister.
B.I am shorter than my sister.
C.I am taller than my sister.
D.I am stronger than my sister.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'than'?
A.Rather
B.Compared to
C.Despite
D.Beside
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'than'?
A.As
B.Minus
C.Equal
D.Despite
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario using 'than'?
A.I bought more apples than oranges.
B.I bought the same amount of apples and oranges.
C.I bought fewer apples than oranges.
D.I didn't buy any fruits.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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