than
UK: ðæn | US: ðæn
Definition
conj. used to introduce the second element in a comparison
prep. in comparison with
Structure
No data yet.
Etymology
The word "than" originates from Old English þanne, þænne, þonne, meaning "then, when, after." It evolved from a temporal adverb to a comparative conjunction in Middle English, influenced by its use in contexts like "rather than" or "more than." Its Germanic roots (cf. Old Norse þan, Gothic þan) reflect its ancient role in marking comparison or contrast, later specializing in comparative constructions.
Examples
She is taller than her brother.
I would rather walk than take the bus.
He arrived earlier than expected.
Nothing is more important than family.
The project was harder than we thought.