therefore

Everyday

Therefore means «so» or «for that reason»; it shows that something follows from what was said before. tree →

In the lessons

It is very common in maths and science: «12 is even; therefore it can be split into two equal groups». In exam and formal writing it links a reason to a result. The maths symbol ∴ means «therefore». In speech people usually say «so». Phrases: and therefore, it is therefore, therefore we can say.

Examples

• It is raining; therefore we will play indoors. tree →
• The angles in a triangle add to 180°; therefore the third angle is 50°. tree →
• She practised every day and therefore improved quickly. tree →
• 15 is divisible by 5; therefore it is in the 5 times table. tree →
• The bridge was closed. We therefore took the long way. tree →
• Ice is less dense than water; therefore it floats. tree →
• They have therefore become very sure-footed. tree →

Note

Adverb, more formal than «so». In writing, use a semicolon or full stop before it, or put it inside the sentence: «We therefore left». Do not confuse with «therefor» (old legal word). In maths, the step after «therefore» is the conclusion.

In Jewish tradition

It is very common in maths and science: «12 is even; therefore it can be split into two equal groups». In exam and formal writing it links a reason to a result. The maths symbol ∴ means «therefore». In speech people usually say «so». Phrases: and therefore, it is therefore, therefore we can say.

Examples

• Therefore suffered I thee not to touch her. (Torah GEN.20.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• Therefore the name of it was called Marah. (Torah EXO.15.23, JPS 1917) tree →
• Therefore the name of the place is called Succoth. (Torah GEN.33.17, JPS 1917) tree →
• Therefore he is not come unto the king's table.' (Prophets 1SA.20.29, JPS 1917) tree →
• Therefore Saul took his sword, and fell upon it. (Prophets 1SA.31.4, JPS 1917) tree →
• Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together.' (Writings NEH.6.7, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Adverb, more formal than «so». In writing, use a semicolon or full stop before it, or put it inside the sentence: «We therefore left». Do not confuse with «therefor» (old legal word). In maths, the step after «therefore» is the conclusion.