therefore

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English

Etymology

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

Adverb

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

Derived terms

Translations

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

See also

Here-, there-, and where- words

References

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