Thereby: meaning, definitions and examples

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thereby

[ˈðɛːbaɪ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a particular way or by means of that

by that means; as a result of that. Used to introduce a logical result or conclusion.

Synonyms

consequently, hence, therefore, thus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
thereby	Used to indicate the result of a previously mentioned action. It often connects an action directly with its consequence. She forgot to tie her shoe, thereby causing her to trip.
thus	Used to indicate the manner or way in which something is done or happens. It can be used to show the result or consequence of an action. She studied hard for months; thus, she passed the exam with flying colors.
consequently	Used to indicate that an event happens as a result of a previously mentioned event or situation. It emphasizes a cause-and-effect relationship. He didn't attend the training sessions; consequently, he was not prepared for the test.
hence	Used to indicate a reason or explanation for something. It is somewhat formal and often seen in written English. The project was behind schedule, hence the need for additional resources.
therefore	Commonly used in logical arguments and formal contexts to show a cause-and-effect relationship. It connects a reason or premise with its conclusion. The data was incomplete; therefore, the study was inconclusive.

Examples of usage

He failed miserably and was dismissed, thereby losing his job.
She focused on her studies, thereby achieving excellent grades.
The team worked efficiently, thereby completing the project ahead of schedule.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 'there' and 'by', which were often used together in older English texts to indicate consequence.
It has been in use since the 14th century to express cause and effect.
Related words that share a similar meaning include 'thus' and 'therefore', but they have subtle differences in usage.

Literature

Writers use 'thereby' to create a logical flow in their arguments or narratives, making the connection between actions and outcomes clearer.
The use of this word is often found in formal writing, including academic papers and legal documents, emphasizing clarity in arguments.
Classic literature often features 'thereby' to add a sense of sophistication to the text, highlighting impacts of character actions.

Academic Language

'Thereby' is frequently used in research papers to explain how certain findings lead to specific conclusions.
It serves as a bridge between hypothesis and result in scientific studies, ensuring that the reader understands the causal relationship.
Students often use this word to enhance their writing, especially in essays, aiming for a more formal tone.

Speech and Communication

In verbal communication, people may use 'thereby' to clarify what they mean and to show logical connections in their thoughts.
This word can be vital during debates or discussions, helping speakers to succinctly outline their reasoning processes.
Effective presenters often include terms like 'thereby' to aid in the understanding of complex ideas.

Translations

Translations of the word "thereby" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assim

🇮🇳 इस प्रकार

🇩🇪 dadurch

🇮🇩 dengan demikian

🇺🇦 таким чином

🇵🇱 w ten sposób

🇯🇵 それによって

🇫🇷 ainsi

🇪🇸 de este modo

🇹🇷 böylece

🇰🇷 그렇게 함으로써

🇸🇦 وبالتالي

🇨🇿 tím

🇸🇰 tým

🇨🇳 因此

🇸🇮 tako

🇮🇸 þannig

🇰🇿 сол себепті

🇬🇪 ამგვარად

🇦🇿 beləliklə

🇲🇽 de este modo

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,762, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1759 slow
1760 grow
1761 billion
1762 thereby
1763 refused
1764 familiar
1765 determining
...