linking adverb · academic
therefore
UK/ˈðeəfɔː(r)/US/ˈðerfɔːr/THERE·fore
used to introduce a result or consequence of what has just been said
Examples
“The company missed its targets; therefore, bonuses were cut.”
“Traffic is heavy; therefore, I left earlier than usual.”
“Pollution has increased; therefore, authorities need stricter rules.”
Band 8 sentence
“Inefficient public transport increases traffic congestion; therefore, governments should prioritise investment in buses and trains.”
Collocations
- Therefore, + clause (start a sentence)
- X; therefore, Y (connect independent clauses)
Word family
Common mistakes
She failed the exam, therefore she was upset.→She failed the exam; therefore, she was upset.
I didn't go to the party therefore I was tired.→I didn't go to the party because I was tired; therefore, I avoided the crowd.
Say it for a higher band
5so→6thus→7+therefore
Synonyms
thus
Easily confused
so
“He missed the deadline, so he couldn't submit his application on time.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Cause & effect
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