than

than [ strong ðæn, weak ðən ] function word ***

Than can be used in the following ways:

as a conjunction (connecting two clauses or phrases):

We shouldn't spend more than we earn.

as a preposition (followed by a noun):

I'm taller than my dad. (followed by a number):

A crowd of more than 10,000 had gathered. Object pronouns are normally used after than:

He was three years older than me. Some people think that it is more correct to use subject pronouns after than, but this sounds very formal and old-fashioned:

No one could have worked harder than she.

Than is used especially after a comparative adjective or adverb.

1. ) used when making comparisons:

Nylon is considerably stronger than cotton.

Diesel fuel was less expensive than gasoline.

Is the world a safer place than it was a year ago?

We don't want to do more than is necessary.

2. ) used when you are saying that a particular number or amount is above or below a certain level:

more/less than: No one should have to wait more than 24 hours to see a doctor.

a small town of less than 5,000 people

3. ) used for saying that one description or possibility is preferred to another:

It was more a friendly warning than a threat.

Most criminals would rather go to prison than meet their victims.