therefore

American  

[thair-fawr, -fohr] / ˈðɛərˌfɔr, -ˌfoʊr /

adverb

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

   I think; therefore I am.

   Synonyms:

   whence, hence

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therefore British  

/ 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

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Related Words

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.

Etymology

Origin of therefore

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

Compare meaning

How does therefore compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• therefor vs. therefore

Example Sentences

“Your options are more limited, and therefore you have to take a little more risk than perhaps you would have wanted to.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

After this wind-up, the reader might expect Gorsuch to declare that Colorado’s law does not pass strict scrutiny and therefore violates the First Amendment.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

I imagine that such deposits would no longer be considered “new money,” and therefore would not be eligible for the purchase of a CD at a promotional rate.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 31, 2026

Lacking options, many displaced people therefore have to find relatives who can host them or pay exorbitant rents to landlords, explained Fadi Al-Halabi, executive director in Lebanon of the Ecumenical Disability Advocates Network.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

So therefore I will not give you the most beautiful voice in the world.

From "Black Star, Bright Dawn" by Scott O'Dell

Related Words

• accordingly
• so
• then
• thus