Hereby: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term is formed from 'here' meaning 'in this place' and 'by,' which in this context refers to the means or method of doing something.
• Its use has evolved through centuries, originating in Old English and becoming more formal in legal contexts.

Legal Usage

• It's commonly found in legal documents to signify that the speaker is taking a specific action.
• The word helps to establish a clear link between the act being performed and the time and place it is occurring.

Linguistic Importance

• 'Hereby' emphasizes immediacy and formality, distinguishing emotional expressions from factual declarations.
• It is often used with phrases like 'do declare' or 'give notice,' enhancing the weight of communications.

Pop Culture

• The mysterious and sometimes dramatic use of 'hereby' has made appearances in literature and movies to signify pivotal moments.
• Its formal tone is often parodied in comedic settings to emphasize overly serious situations.

Modern Usage

• In contemporary speech, 'hereby' is less common, yet retains a place in formal settings like contracts or legal proceedings.
• Using 'hereby' may convey an air of authority or formality, making it a valuable choice for speeches or official announcements.

At position #2,075, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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