than
Used after comparatives: "mai... decât" = "more... than".
mai mare decât mine
taller than me
mai bine decât ieri
better than yesterday
#148 · Adverb · ADV
In Romanian, decât means “than”. It’s the #148 most frequently used Romanian word. Below you’ll find how to use it, its forms, real example sentences, and common word pairings.
A comparative/adversative particle used mainly after comparatives and in standard Romanian negative constructions with "decât" meaning "only". It does not usually mean a standalone adverb in English, so it is best learned by pattern.
neutralUsed after comparatives: "mai... decât" = "more... than".
taller than me
better than yesterday
Common in negative sentences: "nu... decât" = "only"; often emphasizes limitation.
I only have five minutes.
I know only how to listen.
Only he remained.
Ranked by how often each form shows up in spoken Romanian. The top form cover about 100% of everyday use — learn these first.
mai + adjective/adverb + decât + noun/pronoun
Standard comparison pattern.
Maria este mai înaltă decât Ana.
Maria is taller than Ana.
nu + verb + decât + noun/number/infinitive
Expresses limitation: "only".
Am cumpărat decât două bilete.
I bought only two tickets.
nu + verb + altceva + decât + infinitive/noun
Often used to stress that there is no other option.
Nu pot decât să aștept.
I can only wait.
E mai important decât pare.
It is more important than it seems.
decât - Comparison with "mai... decât".
Nu vreau decât puțin ajutor.
I want only a little help.
decât - Negative construction meaning "only".
N-am decât o singură întrebare.
I have only one question.
decât - Negative construction meaning "only".