therefore

[thair-fawr, -fohr]

adverb

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

   I think; therefore I am.

   Synonyms: whence, hence

therefore

/ ˈðɛəˌfɔː /

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

For each there will be some patients who require monitoring and support managing their health condition and therefore more suitable to the online service.

From BBC

Democrats, therefore, have some leverage in this case.

From BBC

"The fact that the majority of school and college leaders believe the new system will be even worse for their wellbeing is therefore deeply worrying."

From BBC

"I therefore understand from my own life experience what the trashing of women's rights in which Emma has so enthusiastically participated means to women and girls without her privileges."

From BBC

"We therefore have to bring placements commissioned by other local authorities to an end."

From BBC

Related Words

• accordingly 
• so 
• then 
• thus