therefore

[ thair-fawr, -fohr ]

adverb

1. in consequence of that; as a result; consequently:

   I think; therefore I am.

   Synonyms: whence, hence

therefore

/ ˈðɛəˌfɔː /

sentence connector

1. thus; hence: used to mark an inference on the speaker's part

   those people have their umbrellas up: therefore, it must be raining

2. consequently; as a result

   they heard the warning on the radio and therefore took another route

Word History and Origins

Origin of therefore¹

First recorded in 1125–75; Middle English ther(e)fore, variant of therfor therefor

Synonym Study

Therefore, wherefore, accordingly, consequently, so, then all introduce a statement resulting from, or caused by, what immediately precedes. Therefore (for this or that reason) and wherefore (for which reason) imply exactness of reasoning; they are especially used in logic, law, mathematics, etc., and in a formal style of speaking or writing. Accordingly (in conformity with the preceding) and consequently (as a result, or sequence, or effect of the preceding), although also somewhat formal, occur mainly in less technical contexts. So (because the preceding is true or this being the case) and then (since the preceding is true) are informal or conversational in tone.

Example Sentences

The nerve cells have a low immune response to the virus and are therefore unable to protect themselves against it.

From Science Daily

Accurately diagnosing knee abnormalities is therefore crucial for customizing treatment plans and improving patients' quality of life.

From Science Daily

The idea is that these clean sources should start to displace dirty fossil fuels in the electric power grid, therefore reducing CO2 emissions even as electricity demand grows.

From BBC

It is true in government just as it is true in business — and any organization's success therefore depends on the quality of the people who work there.

From Salon

The message, therefore, to English naysayers from the Welsh rugby faithful should be clear.

From BBC

Related Words

• accordingly
• so
• then
• thus