Identify the correct usage: "He is better ___ (than, then) his brother at basketball."

Identify the correct usage: "He is better ___ (than, then) his brother at basketball."

• A. than
• B. then
• C. or
• D. either

Answer: (A)

The correct word to complete the sentence is "than." In this context, "than" is used to make a comparison, indicating that he excels more than his brother in basketball skills. This comparative form is essential when discussing differences in abilities, qualities, or preferences between two entities. For example, you would correctly say, "She is taller than her sister," which similarly compares two heights. The word "then," on the other hand, primarily relates to time or sequence, as in "She went to the store, and then she went home." In this sentence, using "then" would disrupt the intended meaning and create confusion, as it would imply a time-related comparison rather than a skill comparison. Thus, "than" effectively serves its purpose in highlighting the superiority in skill level, making it the appropriate choice in this context.

The correct word to complete the sentence is "than." In this context, "than" is used to make a comparison, indicating that he excels more than his brother in basketball skills. This comparative form is essential when discussing differences in abilities, qualities, or preferences between two entities.

For example, you would correctly say, "She is taller than her sister," which similarly compares two heights. The word "then," on the other hand, primarily relates to time or sequence, as in "She went to the store, and then she went home." In this sentence, using "then" would disrupt the intended meaning and create confusion, as it would imply a time-related comparison rather than a skill comparison.

Thus, "than" effectively serves its purpose in highlighting the superiority in skill level, making it the appropriate choice in this context.