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

Teams finishing first to fourth at the end of the league phase will be seeded for the quarter-finals, and therefore given the second leg home advantage for their potential quarter-final tie.

From BBC

Within his opponent's earshot, Zverev repeatedly said that the Spaniard was cramping and not injured, and therefore should not receive any treatment.

From BBC

The Federal Supreme Court therefore partially overturns the contested award and refers the case back to the CAS for a new ruling, taking into account the probative value of the audio-visual recording in question.”

From Los Angeles Times

Eli’s life story, therefore, was one of survival, and he accepted his lot as a traveling paint salesman with a 3½-room house.

From The Wall Street Journal

She said he had assumed it would have been built to a certain standard, to meet regulations of some description, and therefore safe for the public to be around.

From BBC

Related Words

• accordingly
• so
• then
• thus