More than versus over

The distinction between more than and over is dying out

More than 87 people voted.
Over 87 people voted.

Reader’s question: What’s the difference between more than and over?

Answer: In the past, many grammar experts believed that in countable numerical expressions you should use:

• More than rather than over

More than 87 people voted.

• Older than rather than over

She is older than 45.

• Younger than rather than under

You can’t drive if you’re younger than 16.

Usage changes with time and it is now acceptable to say:

Over 87 people voted.
She’s over 45.
You can’t drive if you’re under 16.

Learn more

Read a Grammar Girl article about the US AP Stylebook being one of last influential style guides to change its stance on more than and over.

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