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

This decision by the OBR had big implications for Reeves – impacting the numbers, spreadsheets and therefore the calculations and trade offs she would have to make.

Read more on BBC

Understanding how these systems respond to rising CO2 is therefore vital for both ocean science and the long-term stability of fisheries that depend on them.

Read more on Science Daily

It therefore felt natural, when Martha started at the University of Reading in September, for them to keep using the app.

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It is therefore fitting that he died on Nov. 27, at age 86, on that most American of holidays, Thanksgiving.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

A supernova is, therefore, technically first an implosion.

Read more on Space Scoop

Related Words

• accordingly 
• so 
• then 
• thus