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Henceforward Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฎ
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henceforward

[hษ›nsหˆfษ”หr.wษ™rd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

time reference

Henceforward means from this time on or from now into the future. It indicates a period or state that will begin at this moment and continue indefinitely.

Synonyms

from now on, from this point, hereafter.

Examples of usage

  • The rules will henceforward apply to all employees.
  • Henceforward, all meetings will be held on Fridays.
  • She decided, henceforward, to focus on her career.
  • They agreed henceforward to work together.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many classic literary works use it to signify change or the start of a new era for characters.
  • Shakespeare employed this term in 'Hamlet', connecting it to ideas of fate and future outcomes.
  • It adds a formal tone to writing, often found in legal documents or official declarations.

Common Usage

  • Often found in formal contexts, such as commitments, promises, or resolutions.
  • It can signal a transition in speeches or writings, indicating new policies or laws.
  • Commonly used in literature and speeches to evoke a sense of continuity from the present to the future.

Cultural References

  • In modern times, it may come off as archaic in casual conversation, yet it retains a ceremonial feel.
  • It's akin to phrases like 'from this point on', which have become more common in everyday language.
  • This term is often associated with important announcements, like proclamations or vows.

Philosophy

  • The term reflects notions of time and permanence, suggesting actions taken today have lasting effects.
  • It invokes discussions about the nature of time and how decisions impact the future.
  • Philosophers may use it to emphasize the importance of mindfulness in present actions for future outcomes.

Origin of 'henceforward'

Main points about word origin

  • The word is formed from 'hence' (meaning 'from here') and 'forward', showing movement into the future.
  • It originates from Middle English, where 'hence' was used similarly to indicate direction or origin.
  • The term has been in use since the 14th century, indicating a long history in the English language.

The term 'henceforward' originates from combining the adverb 'hence', meaning 'from this place' or 'from now', with 'forward', which denotes a direction toward the future. The word has its roots in Middle English, where it was used in a similar form as 'hensforรฐ'. The use of prefixes and suffixes to create compound adverbs was common during the development of the English language. The earliest known usage of 'henceforward' dates back to the 15th century, and it has been used in legal, formal, and literary contexts to express the continuation of a state or action into the future.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,423, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.