therefore

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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

From Middle English therfore, therfor, tharfore, thorfore; synchronically a univerbation of there (pronominal adverb) +‎ for, literally for that (reason). The spelling has been changed due to a reanalysis as there + fore (literally forward from that; thence). See also therefor, ultimately the same formation.

Compare Saterland Frisian deerfoar, Dutch daarvoor, German dafür, Danish and Norwegian derfor, Swedish därför.

Pronunciation[edit]

Adverb[edit]

therefore (not comparable)

  1. (conjunctive) Consequently, by or in consequence of that or this cause; referring to something previously stated.
    Traditional values will always have a place. Therefore, they will never lose relevance.
  2. (conjunctive, archaic) for that; for it (in reference to a previous statement)

Synonyms[edit]

Derived terms[edit]

Translations[edit]

The translations below need to be checked and inserted above into the appropriate translation tables. See instructions at Wiktionary:Entry layout § Translations.

See also[edit]

Here-, there-, and where- words

References[edit]

  1. ^ Jespersen, Otto (1909) A Modern English Grammar on Historical Principles (Sammlung germanischer Elementar- und Handbücher; 9)‎[1], volume I: Sounds and Spellings, London: George Allen & Unwin, published 1961, § 4.36, page 124.