Them vs. Then: What's the Difference?

Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 3, 2023

"Them" is a pronoun used to refer to specific people or things, while "Then" is an adverb used to refer to a specific point in time or what comes next or used to be.

Key Differences

"Them" and "Then" are English words with entirely different roles and meanings within a sentence structure. "Them" is an object pronoun used to represent certain people, animals, or things already mentioned or implied. It serves as the object of a verb or preposition, replacing plural nouns to avoid redundancy and enhance coherence in speech or writing. For instance, "We invited our friends to the party, and we are excited to see them."

Sep 23, 2023

On the other hand, "Then" serves as an adverb, primarily denoting time. It can refer to a specific point in time, express sequence, or imply a result or consequence. It is versatile, allowing for varied applications in different contexts. For example, "She studied for hours, and then she took the exam," here, "Then" denotes the sequence of actions.

Sep 23, 2023

While "Them" is concerned with representing specific entities in conversation or writing, "Then" focuses on the progression of time, sequence, or logical consequence within the narrative. It's essential to differentiate between "Them," which helps in referring back to entities, and "Then," which aids in connecting ideas, events, or actions logically and temporally.

Sep 23, 2023

Understanding the contrast between "Them," a pronoun, and "Then," an adverb, is crucial for coherent and meaningful communication. "Them" contributes to sentence clarity by replacing plural nouns, ensuring succinct and clear expression, while "Then" provides context and logical flow by indicating temporal or consequential relations among ideas or events.

Sep 23, 2023

Using "Them" and "Then" appropriately is pivotal for achieving precision and clarity in language use. While "Them" provides referential simplicity by replacing nouns, "Then" enriches expression by illustrating temporal or logical relations, thereby adding depth and coherence to communication.

Sep 23, 2023

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Comparison Chart

Part of Speech

Pronoun

Adverb

Sep 23, 2023

Function

Represents specific people or things mentioned

Indicates time, sequence, or consequence

Sep 23, 2023

Usage

Used as the object of a verb or preposition

Used to relate actions or events in time or logic

Sep 23, 2023

Example

"I saw them at the store."

"First, mix the ingredients, then bake for 30 minutes."

Sep 23, 2023

Context

Referential

Temporal, sequential, consequential

Sep 23, 2023

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Them and Then Definitions

Them

Plural object pronoun replacing specific nouns.

Please give them the books.

Sep 23, 2023

Then

Adverb indicating a specific point in time.

I lived in New York back then.

Sep 23, 2023

Them

Used to refer to certain people or things.

The kids are playing outside; I will call them for dinner.

Sep 23, 2023

Then

Next in time, space, or order; immediately afterward

Watched the late movie and then went to bed.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Serves as the object of verbs or prepositions.

She baked cookies for them.

Sep 23, 2023

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Then

Used to contrast a previous statement.

He said he would call, but then he didn’t.

Sep 23, 2023

Them

Represents groups, implying plurality.

The birds are flying high; I can’t reach them.

Sep 23, 2023

Then

At that time

I was still in school then. Come at noon.

I'll be ready then.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Those

"Them dogs will find the end of them footprints before ten o'clock" (William Faulkner).

Apr 08, 2023

Then

In addition; moreover; besides

It costs $20, and then there's the sales tax to pay.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

(in the plural) Those ones.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Used after but to qualify or balance a preceding statement

The star was nervous, but then who isn't on the first night of a new play.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Used as the direct object of a verb.

She treated them for a cold.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

In that case; accordingly

If traffic is heavy, then allow extra time.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Used as the indirect object of a verb.

She wrote them a letter.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

As a consequence; therefore

The case, then, is closed.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Used as the object of a preposition.

Give it to them.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Usage Problem And after that

I showered, then combed my hair.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

(in the singular) A single person, previously mentioned, especially if of unknown or non-binary gender.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

That time or moment

The bus leaves at four.

Until then let's walk.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Used as the direct object of a verb.

If a student has an inappropriate question, whatever you do, do not berate them.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Being so at that time

The then chairman of the board.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Used as the indirect object of a verb.

If one of my patients calls, please bring them their dinner.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

(temporal location) At that time.

He was happy then.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Used as the object of a preposition.

If someone comes and asks for the ticket, just give it to them.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

(temporal location) Soon afterward.

He fixed it, then left.

Turn left, then right, then right again, then keep going until you reach the service station.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

(dialectal) Those.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

(sequence) Next in order of place.

There are three green ones, then a blue one.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

The objective case of they. See They.

Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father.

Little stars may hide them when they list.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

In addition; also; besides.

Apr 08, 2023

Them

Refers back to entities previously mentioned.

The students submitted their assignments; the teacher will grade them.

Sep 23, 2023

Then

(conjunctive) In that case.

If it’s locked, then we’ll need the key.

Is it 12 o'clock already? Then it's time for me to leave.

You don't like potatoes? What do you want me to cook, then?

Apr 08, 2023

Then

(sequence) At the same time; on the other hand.

That’s a nice shirt, but then, so is the other one.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Used to contradict an assertion.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Being so at that time.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

That time

It will be finished before then.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Obsolete spelling of than

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Misspelling of than

Apr 08, 2023

Then

At that time (referring to a time specified, either past or future).

And the Canaanite was then in the land.

Now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Soon afterward, or immediately; next; afterward.

First be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

At another time; later; again.

One while the master is not aware of what is done, and then in other cases it may fall out to be own act.

But that opinion, I trust, by then this following argument hath been well read, will be left for one of the mysteries of an indulgent Antichrist.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Than.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

In that case; in consequence; as a consequence; therefore; for this reason.

If all this be so, then man has a natural freedom.

Now, then, be all thy weighty cares away.

Apr 08, 2023

Then

That time; that moment;

We will arrive before then

We were friends from then on

Apr 08, 2023

Then

At a specific prior time;

The then president

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors);

Then he left

Go left first, then right

First came lightning, then thunder

We watched the late movie and then went to bed

And so home and to bed

Apr 08, 2023

Then

In that case or as a consequence;

If he didn't take it, then who did?

Keep it then if you want to

The case, then, is closed

You've made up your mind then?

Then you'll be rich

Apr 08, 2023

Then

At that time;

I was young then

Prices were lower back then

Science as it was then taught

Apr 08, 2023

Then

Refers to what comes next in sequence.

Mix the ingredients well, then add water.

Sep 23, 2023

Then

Implies a consequence or result.

If you study hard, then you will pass the exam.

Sep 23, 2023

Then

Indicates a former state or condition.

The building was an art gallery back then.

Sep 23, 2023

FAQs

Can "Then" be used to refer to a condition or result?

Yes, "Then" can imply a consequence or condition, e.g., "If it rains, then we will stay indoors."

Sep 23, 2023

Is "Them" only used to refer to people?

No, "Them" can refer to people, animals, or things.

Sep 23, 2023

Can "Them" replace singular nouns?

No, "Them" is plural and replaces plural nouns.

Sep 23, 2023

Can "Then" be used to denote contrast?

Yes, "Then" can be used to contrast different parts of a sentence.

Sep 23, 2023

Can "Them" be used as a subject pronoun?

No, "Them" is an object pronoun; "They" is the corresponding subject pronoun.

Sep 23, 2023

Is "Them" always plural?

Yes, "Them" is a plural pronoun.

Sep 23, 2023

Does "Then" always follow a comma?

Often, but not always. It depends on the sentence structure.

Sep 23, 2023

Is "Then" always related to time?

Primarily, but it can also denote sequence, contrast, or consequence.

Sep 23, 2023

Can "Then" start a sentence?

Yes, "Then" can be used at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.

Sep 23, 2023

Can "Them" refer to both humans and non-humans in the same sentence?

Yes, if the context makes it clear who or what "Them" refers to.

Sep 23, 2023

Can "Them" refer to indefinite pronouns like "anyone"?

No, "Them" refers to definite, plural antecedents.

Sep 23, 2023

Is "Then" used only in past tense scenarios?

No, "Then" can be used to denote time, sequence, or consequence in various tenses.

Sep 23, 2023

Is "Then" synonymous with "Therefore"?

They can be similar but are not always interchangeable.

Sep 23, 2023

Can “Them” be used for emphasis?

It can be emphasized in speech or writing, e.g., “I told THEM not to go.”

Sep 23, 2023

Is "Them" formal or informal language?

"Them" is standard and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Sep 23, 2023

Enterance vs. Entrance

About Author

Written by

Sawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.

Edited by

Huma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.