Ever wonder how to use therefore correctly without sounding stiff or awkward? You’re not alone, many people struggle with this little but powerful word that connects ideas smoothly. Simply tossing it into a sentence rarely works; it can feel forced or confusing if you don’t understand the nuances.
That’s why in this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use therefore naturally in everyday writing, plus explore related connectors like thus, consequently, and as a result.
By the end, you’ll gain the confidence to link ideas clearly and make your writing flow effortlessly, without overthinking every sentence.
Meaning of Other Ways To Say “Therefore”➡️
Therefore is a versatile conjunctive adverb used to indicate cause and effect, conclusion, or logical consequence in a sentence. Originating from Middle English and derived from the Old English phrase “for þǣre”, it has been part of English writing for centuries, helping writers and speakers connect ideas smoothly.
Beyond its basic usage, therefore is often paired with synonyms and related terms like thus, consequently, as a result, and hence, making it essential for clear reasoning and formal writing.
Historically, scholars have used it in philosophical, scientific, and legal texts to present conclusions, emphasizing logical flow. Today, therefore remains a crucial word in academic writing, professional communication, and everyday English, guiding readers to understand the link between premises and outcomes effortlessly.
Other Ways To Say “Therefore”
- Accordingly
- Consequently
- Thus
- Hence
- As a result
- For this reason
- Ergo
- In consequence
- In that case
- Wherefore
- It follows that
- So
- Thereupon
- On that account
- Forasmuch as
- Inasmuch as
- Since
- As such
- Resulting in
- To that end
- On account of
- By that token
- After all
- In view of this
- That being so
1. Accordingly
Scenario: You’ve just analyzed the weekly sales report and need to act based on the results.
Explanation: Accordingly is used to show a logical response or adjustment based on information. It is formal but can fit in professional and casual contexts when you want to indicate a natural consequence.
Examples:
- The forecast predicts rain. Accordingly, we will move the picnic indoors.
- She failed to submit the forms on time. Accordingly, her request was denied.
- The team worked hard on the project. Accordingly, they received a bonus.
- Prices have dropped. Accordingly, we are revising our budget.
- He forgot his ID. Accordingly, he could not enter the building.
Why it Works: Using accordingly clearly links cause and effect, signaling the reader that your actions or conclusions are based on solid reasoning. It feels logical, smooth, and professional.
2. Consequently
Scenario: After missing the deadline, you need to explain the ripple effects.
Explanation: Consequently signals a direct result or outcome, often adding a serious or formal tone. It emphasizes that one event naturally leads to another.
Examples:
- She skipped practice for a week. Consequently, she struggled in the match.
- The company cut costs sharply. Consequently, employee morale dropped.
- He did not study for the test. Consequently, he failed.
- Sales increased steadily. Consequently, the team celebrated.
- I overslept. Consequently, I missed the morning meeting.
Why it Works: Consequently shows a clear cause-and-effect relationship. It strengthens the logical flow of your writing, making your reasoning easy to follow.
3. Thus
Scenario: You are summarizing the results of a personal experiment or observation.
Explanation: Thus is used to draw a clear conclusion from the information provided. It is concise, slightly formal, and fits well in both writing and speech to show logical outcomes.
Examples:
- She studied every night. Thus, she aced the final exam.
- The roads were icy. Thus, the school decided to close early.
- He forgot his wallet. Thus, he could not pay for lunch.
- The team practiced diligently. Thus, they won the championship.
- The machine was faulty. Thus, production slowed down.
Why it Works: This effectively signals conclusions, helping readers connect the dots between actions and outcomes in a crisp and professional way.
4. Hence
Scenario: Explaining why a decision was made in a meeting or conversation.
Explanation: Hence is a formal connector that indicates a logical result. It often adds sophistication to writing and emphasizes reasoned outcomes.
Examples:
- The project was delayed. Hence, the launch date was postponed.
- He did not meet the criteria. Hence, he was not selected.
- Traffic was heavy. Hence, we arrived late.
- The budget increased. Hence, we could hire more staff.
- She was unwell. Hence, she stayed home.
Why it Works: Hence provides clarity and authority, showing readers that conclusions are drawn from evidence or reasoning.
5. As a result
Scenario: Reporting consequences in everyday life or professional updates.
Explanation: As a result clearly communicates the outcome of an action or situation. It is versatile and works in formal and casual contexts.
Examples:
- He missed the deadline. As a result, his application was rejected.
- The weather was unpredictable. As a result, the event was rescheduled.
- She practiced regularly. As a result, she improved quickly.
- The server crashed. As a result, the website went offline.
- He ignored the instructions. As a result, the task was incomplete.
Why it Works: As a result makes cause-and-effect relationships explicit, helping the reader understand the logical connection between events and outcomes.
6. For this reason
Scenario: Justifying a choice or decision in writing or conversation.
Explanation: For this reason emphasizes the cause behind a particular outcome. It is natural, clear, and slightly formal.
Examples:
- The team lacked preparation. For this reason, they lost the match.
- She missed several classes. For this reason, her grades dropped.
- The road was blocked. For this reason, we took a detour.
- He invested wisely. For this reason, he made a profit.
- The product was defective. For this reason, it was recalled.
Why it Works: For this reason explicitly connects cause and effect, making the explanation clear and persuasive for the reader.
7. Ergo
Scenario: Summarizing a logical conclusion in a playful or formal discussion.
Explanation: Ergo is a concise, slightly old-fashioned word for therefore. It signals a conclusion from previous statements and adds a clever or academic tone.
Examples:
- He skipped breakfast. Ergo, he felt tired by mid-morning.
- The plan was poorly executed. Ergo, it failed.
- She ignored the instructions. Ergo, the project was delayed.
- The team practiced daily. Ergo, they performed well.
- The software was outdated. Ergo, errors occurred frequently.
Why it Works: Ergo is punchy and formal, making conclusions sound smart and logical without lengthy explanations.
8. In consequence
Scenario: Reporting outcomes in historical, professional, or academic contexts.
Explanation: In consequence is a formal phrase highlighting the effect of an action or event. It works well in professional writing to show cause and effect.
Examples:
- The contract was breached. In consequence, legal action followed.
- He ignored safety rules. In consequence, accidents occurred.
- The company lost clients. In consequence, revenue dropped.
- The weather turned stormy. In consequence, flights were delayed.
- She did not submit reports. In consequence, the team faced delays.
Why it Works: In consequence makes outcomes explicit, emphasizing the seriousness or formal nature of the cause-and-effect relationship.
9. In that case
Scenario: Responding to a condition or hypothetical scenario in conversation.
Explanation: In that case introduces a logical follow-up based on a previous situation. It is casual, natural, and works in dialogue or advice.
Examples:
- If it rains, in that case, we will cancel the picnic.
- If the restaurant is closed, in that case, we can order takeout.
- If she cannot attend, in that case, someone else will present.
- If the report is incomplete, in that case, we will request revisions.
- If the store runs out of stock, in that case, we will shop online.
Why it Works: In that case it is conversational and flexible, making responses logical and easy to follow in real-life scenarios.
10. Wherefore
Scenario: Explaining reasons in literary or formal contexts.
Explanation: Wherefore is a classic term meaning why or for what reason. It is mostly used in legal or literary texts to highlight causes or reasoning.
Examples:
- Wherefore she acted bravely, she received a medal.
- He studied hard, wherefore he passed the exam with distinction.
- The law was strict, therefore many complied.
- Wherefore the company adopted new policies, employee satisfaction improved.
- The weather worsened, therefore the event was postponed.
Why it Works: Wherefore gives a traditional, formal tone, perfect for literary, historical, or legal writing.
11. It follows that
Scenario: Drawing conclusions in essays or professional reports.
Explanation: It follows that it is used to indicate that a conclusion naturally results from the given facts. It is formal but very clear.
Examples:
- He missed several deadlines. It follows that his performance was unsatisfactory.
- Sales increased significantly. It follows that profits grew as well.
- She practiced daily. It follows that she improved quickly.
- The system was updated. It follows that errors were reduced.
- The project lacked planning. It follows that delays were inevitable.
Why it Works: It follows that it provides a clear, logical bridge between facts and conclusions, making reasoning transparent.
12. So
Scenario: Explaining results in casual conversation or informal writing.
Explanation: So is simple, conversational, and widely used to indicate outcomes or results. It is less formal but highly effective.
Examples:
- It started raining, so we stayed indoors.
- He forgot his homework, so the teacher was not happy.
- She was tired, so she took a nap.
- They missed the bus, so they were late.
- The food was delicious, so we ordered more.
Why it Works: So is approachable, natural, and instantly understandable, making it perfect for everyday communication.
13. Thereupon
Scenario: Narrating sequential events in storytelling or formal writing.
Explanation: Thereupon is used to indicate that one action followed immediately after another. It is formal and slightly literary.
Examples:
- He heard the alarm, thereupon he ran outside.
- The meeting ended, thereupon everyone left the room.
- The judge gave the verdict, thereupon the courtroom fell silent.
- She received the invitation, thereupon she RSVP’d.
- The phone rang, thereupon he answered quickly.
Why it Works: Thereupon creates a smooth, chronological flow between events, making storytelling or reporting feel polished.
14. On that account
Scenario: Justifying a decision or explaining reasoning in writing.
Explanation: On that account highlights the reason or basis for a choice. It is formal but clear.
Examples:
- The deadline was missed. On that account, the submission was rejected.
- The team lacked experience. On that account, they received guidance.
- He was ill. On that account, he could not attend.
- The project faced challenges. On that account, adjustments were made.
- She did not follow instructions. On that account, the task was delayed.
Why it Works: On that account signals cause and effect professionally, providing clear reasoning behind decisions.
15. Forasmuch as
Scenario: Formal writing, legal documents, or academic contexts.
Explanation: Forasmuch as is an older formal phrase meaning because or since. It shows reasoning and is suitable for authoritative writing.
Examples:
- Forasmuch as the evidence was clear, the court ruled in favor.
- Forasmuch as he met the criteria, he was accepted.
- Forasmuch as the product failed tests, it was recalled.
- Forasmuch as the team cooperated, success was achieved.
- Forasmuch as the data supports it, the conclusion is valid.
Why it Works: Forasmuch as conveys formal justification, making reasoning sound credible and professional.
16. Inasmuch as
Scenario: Explaining specific limitations or reasoning in formal writing.
Explanation: Inasmuch as highlights extent or reasoning. It is formal and precise, often used in reports or essays.
Examples:
- Inasmuch as the rules apply, everyone must comply.
- Inasmuch as the plan is feasible, we will proceed.
- Inasmuch as the results are conclusive, no further tests are needed.
- Inasmuch as the client agrees, the contract will be signed.
- Inasmuch as the project is funded, work will begin.
Why it Works: Inasmuch as it clarifies scope and reasoning, making formal writing precise and authoritative.
17. Since
Scenario: Showing cause in casual and professional contexts.
Explanation: Since it is versatile, signaling cause or time. It works in both formal and casual writing.
Examples:
- Since it rained, we stayed inside.
- Since she studied hard, she passed the exam.
- Since the store was closed, we bought groceries elsewhere.
- Since he was late, the meeting started without him.
- Since the weather is cold, wear a jacket.
Why it Works: Since it is simple, clear, and widely understood, making cause-and-effect relationships easy to communicate.
18. As such
Scenario: Clarifying status, role, or consequence in writing.
Explanation: As such emphasizes the true nature or role of something. It is formal but smooth in context.
Examples:
- He is the manager, and as such, he oversees all operations.
- This is a legal document, and as such, it must be signed.
- She is a team leader, and as such, she assigns tasks.
- The data is preliminary, and as such, conclusions are tentative.
- The area is restricted, and as such, entry is prohibited.
Why it Works: As such emphasizes authority or status, making explanations precise and credible.
19. Resulting in
Scenario: Describing direct consequences of actions or events.
Explanation: Resulting in highlights the outcome that follows from a cause. It works in both formal and casual writing.
Examples:
- He skipped meals, resulting in fatigue.
- The machine malfunctioned, resulting in delays.
- She practiced diligently, resulting in excellent performance.
- Heavy rain flooded the roads, resulting in traffic jams.
- Poor planning caused errors, resulting in lost time.
Why it Works: Resulting in explicitly linking cause and effect, helping readers understand logical outcomes.
20. To that end
Scenario: Stating a purpose or goal in professional writing.
Explanation: To that end indicates intention or objective. It is formal and widely used in plans, essays, and reports.
Examples:
- The company wants to improve efficiency. To that end, new software was installed.
- We aim to reduce errors. To that end, training sessions were held.
- The team seeks higher engagement. To that end, workshops were organized.
- The school wants safer roads. To that end, signs were installed.
- The research aims to find solutions. To that end, experiments were conducted.
Why it Works: To that end communicates clear purpose and planning, making writing purposeful and logical.
21. On account of
Scenario: Giving reasons or causes in everyday or professional contexts.
Explanation: On account of means because of. It is slightly formal but conversational enough for clarity.
Examples:
- The match was canceled on account of rain.
- She was late on account of traffic.
- The event was postponed on account of low attendance.
- He missed the deadline on account of illness.
- The flight was delayed on account of technical issues.
Why it Works: On account of clearly expressed cause, making sentences easy to understand and formal enough for professional writing.
22. By that token
Scenario: Supporting a statement with evidence or reasoning.
Explanation: By that token means based on that evidence or reasoning. It adds a conversational, logical tone.
Examples:
- She is an excellent leader. By that token, the team performed well.
- He stayed calm during crises. By that token, he was promoted.
- The book is popular. By that token, the author is invited to speak.
- The system is efficient. By that token, we recommend its adoption.
- She is hardworking. By that token, she earned the award.
Why it Works: By that token connects evidence to conclusions naturally, making reasoning conversational and persuasive.
23. After all
Scenario: Adding reasoning or justification in casual and conversational writing.
Explanation: After all, it emphasizes explanation, reasoning, or a reminder. It is informal and friendly.
Examples:
- He should rest. After all, he worked all day.
- You can trust her. After all, she is honest.
- We stayed home. After all, it was raining.
- They deserved the prize. After all, they practiced hard.
- I took my umbrella. After all, it looked cloudy.
Why it Works: After all, it is friendly and relatable, giving reasoning in a natural, conversational tone.
24. In view of this
Scenario: Explaining decisions or outcomes based on observations.
Explanation: In view of this indicates a conclusion or decision based on current facts. It is formal and suitable for professional or academic writing.
Examples:
- In view of this, we postponed the meeting.
- In view of this, the budget was adjusted.
- In view of this, additional resources were allocated.
- In view of this, safety measures were implemented.
- In view of this, the strategy was revised.
Why it Works: In view of this shows reasoning based on evidence, making conclusions clear and credible.
25. That being so
Scenario: Introducing conclusions based on prior statements.
Explanation: That being so signals that what follows logically comes from the previous point. It is formal yet conversational.
Examples:
- The weather is bad. That being so, we should stay indoors.
- The report is incomplete. That being so, we cannot submit it.
- He has no experience. That being so, training is necessary.
- The equipment is faulty. That being so, repairs are urgent.
- The proposal lacks details. That being so, we cannot approve it.
Why it Works: That being so bridges cause and conclusion smoothly, making reasoning easy to follow.
Conclusion
By now, you’ve seen how therefore and its related terms like thus, consequently, and as a result can effortlessly connect ideas and make your writing flow naturally. Whether you’re drafting emails, essays, or professional reports, understanding how to use them correctly gives you clarity, confidence, and impact in your communication.
Remember, it’s not just about sounding formal, it’s about making your thoughts easy to follow and persuasive. Keep this guide handy, try the examples in real-life writing, and notice how smoothly your sentences connect.
If you found these tips helpful, share them with others or bookmark this guide for future reference, your writing deserves that extra polish.
FAQS ABOUT “Therefore”
1. What to use instead of “Therefore”?
Use alternatives like thus, hence, consequently, as a result, or accordingly to express cause and effect clearly and effectively.
2. How do you politely say “Therefore”?
You can politely use it for this reason, as such, or on that account to convey the meaning without sounding abrupt or overly formal.
3. What is a fancy way of saying “Therefore”?
Try sophisticated options like ergo, henceforth, thereupon, or thusly to elevate your writing style.
4. How do you say “Therefore” in a formal way?
Use professional phrasing like consequently, as a result, in view of this, or that being so to maintain a formal tone.
5. What are the best synonyms of “Therefore” for academic writing?
Popular academic alternatives include thus, consequently, hence, as a consequence, and it follows that, which enhance clarity and logical flow.
