More often than not means usually, in most cases: more often than not, the first bus arrives before the café opens. Literally, it happens more often than it doesn't. It sounds natural both in conversation and in essays.
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More often than not, + usual event / subject + more often than not + verb
- More often than not, the first bus arrives before the café opens.
- We more often than not choose a table outside.
- When I ask for a recommendation, more often than not someone suggests the market.
What changed
First versionMore often then not, I walk home through the park.
RevisionMore often than not, I walk home through the park.
Then and than sound alike, but then means after that, and than means compared with. This phrase is a comparison, more often than not happening, so it's than.
Often means frequently, but not necessarily most of the time. Usually means the same as more often than not, only simpler. Not often means rarely, which is quite different.
Your turn
Choose the comparison word in the expression meaning usually: More often ___ not, the library is quiet in the morning.
Show the answer
than — The phrase is a comparison, more often than not, so it's than. Then means after that.
Describe what usually happens in a situation that repeats, on a commute, in a shop or at work, using more often than not.
More often than not, I find a useful book when I visit the second-hand shop.
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