Ted may leave earlier than he planned.

#1 is not rude. There is not really any difference in politeness between the sentences. #1 and #2 seem pretty much interchangeable in conversation, though in written English I think I prefer #1. The repetition of the verb in #3 is normally unnecessary (though the sentence is still correct).

Thanks!

Why is #1 preferred to #2?

northwind
Why is #1 preferred to #2?

Preferred in written English, that is.

It's just that, to me, #2 seems a bit more casual/conversational.

I think two works best. because, often I hear number one goes like "Ted may leave earlier than he plan" instead. I often hear people speak number three like this instead "Ted might left earlier than he planned to leave"

If number one and two can be so confusing. I would go with number two but don't take my words for it I only went to elementary school(no joke) hehe

if number one and three can be so confusing*

Hi Mr Wordy,

Thanks for your quick reply.

I see.

Is the difference between #3 and #4 the same? Is #4 a bit more casual/conversational than #3?

3. Ted worked harder than Sue.

4. Ted worked harder than Sue did.

northwind
Is the difference between #3 and #4 the same? Is #4 a bit more casual/conversational than #3?

3. Ted worked harder than Sue.

4. Ted worked harder than Sue did.

Again, I think I prefer #3 in more formal written English. Perhaps "casual/conversational" is not the best way to describe the difference. It's just that, to me

Thanks, Mr Wordy.

How nice and clear!

Gotcha!

Thanks!