You may have seen the phrase ‘more than’ and the word ‘over’ are used in reference to numbers. But what’s the difference between the two? And how can you be sure you’re using the correct one? In this article, we’ll go over the difference and teach you how to use both in a sentence. You’ll also learn pronunciation.
Need a quick answer? Here it is:
- ‘More than’ refers to amounts, quantities, or numbers.
- ‘Over’ can be used to refer to the proximity of one object versus another. But it can also refer to numbers, amounts, or quantities, as well. (i.e., we have over $100 left)
While these words can be used interchangeably in some cases, that’s not always the case. So, you have to be careful when using these words.
When to Use ‘More Than’ or ‘Over’
So, how do you know when to use ‘more than’ and when to use ‘over’? Let’s go over that now.
The good news is that there’s no technical grammar rule that says you have to use one or the other.
In most cases, use your best judgment. Which sounds best to you?
Most sources cite that ‘more than’ means the same thing as ‘over’ so it really is up to you (or whatever publication you might be writing for – they often have their own style guide and rules).
‘Over’ vs. ‘More Than’ – Everyday Use Made Easy
Now that you know ‘more than’ and ‘over’ pretty much mean the same thing, you should feel free to use them as you see fit.
Since most sources, such as Merriam-Webster and World College Dictionary, agree that they mean the same thing, there are technically no restrictions on how you use either word.
They would be considered homophones if they sounded the same.
So, you can say:
- I have more than enough money.
- I have over $1600 in my bank account.
However, saying the same thing in reverse might not sound right on one end.
For example:
- ‘I have over enough money.’
- ‘I have more than $1600 in my bank account.’
The second sentence is okay, but the first is incorrect and ungrammatical. So, be careful when using this word and phrase interchangeably because it could affect the meaning.
Definition of ‘More Than’: What Does ‘More Than’ Mean?
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘more than’ as:
- To a great degree, very, or extremely.
Definition of ‘Over’: What Does ‘Over’ Mean?
The same dictionary defines ‘over’ as:
- Across a barrier or intervening space.
It could also mean:
- Forward beyond an edge or brink and often down
- Across the brim
- So as to bring the underside up
- From a vertical to a prone or inclined position
- From one person or side to another
- Across
- To one’s home
- On the other side of an intervening space
- To agree or concord
- Beyond some quantity, limit, or norm, often by a specified amount or to a specified degree
- In an excessive manner: inordinately
- Till a later time (such as the next day – overnight)
- Above
- So as to cover the whole surface
- Used on a two-way radio circuit to indicate that a message is complete and a reply is expected
- Through
- Once more (again)
- Used as a function word to indicate motion or situation in a position higher than or above another
- Used to indicate the possession of authority, power, or jurisdiction in regard to something or person
- Used to indicate superiority, advantage, or preference
- Used to indicate that one is overcome, circumvented, or disregarded
- More than
- Above
- Used to indicate position upon or movement down upon
- All through or throughout
- During
- Until the end of
- Upper, higher
- Outer, covering
- Excessive
- Not used up (remaining)
- Being at an end
- Having or showing an excess or surplus
- Fried on both sides
- No longer current, popular, or fashionable
Pronunciation: How to Pronounce ‘More Than’ and ‘Over’
Are you wondering how to pronounce this word and phrase? Here’s a short guide.
To pronounce ‘more than,’ here’s the phonetic spelling:
mAW-DHEN
To pronounce ‘over,’ here’s the phonetic spelling:
OhvUH
How to Use ‘More Than’ and ‘Over’ in a Sentence
Now that we’ve covered the definition and pronunciation, let’s see some examples of how to use both this word and phrase in a sentence.
More Than
- I have more than enough money to get me back home after going on vacation. Don’t worry about me, Jill. I’m a big girl, and I can take care of myself.
- I have more than twelve kids to feed today. We’re having a birthday party for my son. He’s turning seven, so we have to gather some supplies for the party this weekend. I can’t wait to give him the happiest birthday he’s ever had.
- We had more than $20,000 in our joint bank account. And now all our money is suddenly gone! And I can’t reach Peter. How could this be happening?
- There are more than 10 flies in here, at least. Don’t we have a fly swatter or a bug zapper or something?
- I applied to more than enough colleges, so I should have a lot of options when acceptance letters start rolling in. I don't know whether I'd choose Harvard or Stanford if I got into both. That's such a hard choice!
Over
- Our organization has raised over $10 million in the first round of funding. This is insane! I can’t believe it’s really real.
- I don’t think I can get over how my boyfriend betrayed me with that girl from work. I just can’t forgive him. I don’t know what we’re going to do because we live together and have three kids.
- I have over 30 students in my class this year. I don’t know how they expect me to handle all of these students alone. My Teacher’s Day gift better be really good.
- We have over four parking tickets on our car. They’re about to suspend our registration. Can’t you pay for the tickets or something? I can’t lose our only way to get around town.
- We had over 50 muffins made for your school last night! What happened to them? Did you eat all 200 muffins, Krissy? Please, tell me you didn't!
Concluding Advice on ‘More Than’ and ‘Over’
To recap, we learned the following:
- ‘More than’ refers to amounts, quantities, or numbers.
- ‘Over’ can be used to refer to the proximity of one object versus another. But it can also refer to numbers, amounts, or quantities, as well. (i.e., we have over $100 left)
While these words can be used interchangeably in some cases, that’s not always the case. So, you have to be careful when using these words.
If you ever get stuck on anything, feel free to come back to review what you learned. We have a whole library of content on confusing words and phrases you might see as you’re learning the language. Go check it out anytime.
