How to Say “Accordingly” in English: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to expressing ideas or conveying information, having a wide-ranging vocabulary is crucial. One such important word is “accordingly,” which denotes a connection between cause and effect, or an appropriate response to a given situation. Whether you are looking for a formal or informal way to say “accordingly” in English, this guide will equip you with numerous tips, examples, and variations to enhance your language skills.

Formal Ways to Say “Accordingly” in English

When it comes to formal settings, it is essential to utilize precise and sophisticated language. The following are some formal alternatives to expressing the meaning of “accordingly” in English:

1. Consequently: This term is often used to indicate a logical result or consequence of a preceding action or event. For example, “She failed to submit the report on time; consequently, she was not considered for the promotion.”
2. Hence: Similar to “consequently,” “hence” suggests a cause-and-effect relationship. It implies that the subsequent action or outcome is a direct result of the preceding circumstances. For instance, “The students’ exemplary behavior on the field trip; hence, they were commended by their teachers.”
3. Therefore: When you want to express a conclusion or a logical consequence, “therefore” can be a suitable alternative for “accordingly.” It signifies that the subsequent action follows logically from the preceding information. For example, “The experiment yielded significant results; therefore, the researchers concluded their hypothesis was correct.”
4. As a result: This phrase can be used to show cause and effect. It indicates that a particular outcome or response is the consequence of a preceding action or situation. For instance, “The team’s poor performance; as a result, they lost the championship.”
5. In consequence: This formal expression signifies a direct outcome or effect of a particular circumstance or decision. It is often used in formal writing and may not be as commonly used in everyday conversation. For example, “The company failed to meet its targets; in consequence, several employees were laid off.”
6. In response to this: When you want to indicate that an action is taken as a direct response to a particular situation or information, this phrase can be used as an alternative for “accordingly.” It emphasizes the cause-and-effect relationship. For instance, “The customer complaint; in response to this, the company immediately issued a refund.”

Informal Ways to Say “Accordingly” in English

Informal conversations or casual writing offer more flexibility in language use. Here are some informal alternatives to expressing the meaning of “accordingly” in English:

1. So: This simple and common word is often used in informal speech to indicate a logical conclusion or a connection between ideas. For example, “He didn’t study for the exam; so he failed.”
2. That’s why: When you want to provide a reason or give an explanation for a particular situation, “that’s why” can be a suitable alternative. It highlights the cause-and-effect relationship between actions or events. For instance, “She loves reading books; that’s why she became a writer.”
3. That being said: This phrase is useful when you want to present an idea that follows logically from a previous statement, but without sounding too formal. It can be used to add a contrasting viewpoint or to introduce an observation or recommendation. For example, “The movie received mixed reviews; that being said, it has already become a box office success.”
4. Based on this: Used in informal contexts, this phrase implies that a particular action or decision is made because of the information or circumstances provided. It suggests a cause-and-effect relationship between the two. For instance, “The alarming number of accidents; based on this, the government implemented stricter traffic regulations.”
5. As such: This phrase is often used to indicate that the subsequent action or response is a direct result of a previous fact, statement, or condition. It functions as a bridge between cause and effect. For example, “The weather forecast predicts heavy rain; as such, the picnic has been rescheduled.”

Note: It’s important to remember that in casual conversations or informal writing, the use of “accordingly” or its alternatives may vary based on context, regional variations, and personal preferences. The examples provided contribute to a comprehensive understanding, but it’s always advisable to pay attention to the specific nuances of language use in different situations.

As you can see, there are numerous ways to say “accordingly” in English, both in formal and informal contexts. By expanding your vocabulary and understanding the different alternatives, you can express yourself more precisely and effectively in various situations. Remember to consider the context and choose the appropriate alternative that best conveys your intended meaning.

So, whether you are writing a formal document, engaging in a professional conversation, or simply chatting with friends, you now have a wide array of alternatives to enhance your language skills. Practice using these options and soon enough, you will find yourself expressing your ideas more confidently and accurately.