Therefore

Definition

Therefore is an adverb used to indicate a logical conclusion or result from a preceding statement or fact.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈðɛr.fɔr/
• Respelling: THAIR-for

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈðɛə.fɔː/
• Respelling: THAIR-faw

Etymology

The word "therefore" originates from the Middle English "therfor," meaning "for that reason," derived from Old English "þǣrfore." It is a combination of "there" and "fore," with the latter coming from Old English "foran," meaning "before" or "in front."

Derivatives

• Therefor (adverb, meaning "for that")
• Thereforeforth (archaic)
• Therebefore (archaic)
• Therewith (adverb)
• Thereto (adverb)

Synonyms

• Thus
• Consequently
• Hence

Antonyms

• However
• Nevertheless
• Nonetheless

Usage

The adverb "therefore" is commonly used to show a cause-and-effect relationship between two ideas. For example, "The company increased its marketing budget; therefore, sales improved significantly." It is often used in formal writing or structured arguments.

Related Terms

• Result: The outcome of an action or process.
• Logic: Reasoning conducted or assessed according to strict principles.
• Inference: A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• For that reason; as a result: Indicates a conclusion or logical consequence of the preceding information.
  • Example: "She studied hard; therefore, she passed the exam with flying colors."
• Consequently; in view of this: Refers to a result that logically follows from a given situation or statement.
  • Example: "The project exceeded its budget; therefore, further funding was required."