How to Pronounce Than vs Then

"than" and "then" are pronounced differently. "than" is than (/ðæn/); "then" is then (/ðɛn/). The vowel differs: "than" uses a wide short-a; "then" uses a short-e.

🔀 Different pronunciation

than

/ðæn/

Say it like: than

than

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Accent

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Speed

Full pronunciation page for “than” →

then

/ðɛn/

Say it like: then

then

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

If an accent sounds the same, your device is missing that voice — it falls back to the closest one.

Speed

Full pronunciation page for “then” →

Frequently asked questions

Are "than" and "then" pronounced the same?

No. "than" is than (/ðæn/) and "then" is then (/ðɛn/). The vowel differs: "than" uses a wide short-a; "then" uses a short-e.

Why do people confuse "than" and "then"?

One vowel apart and both are quick, unstressed words in speech.

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