What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wherefore
Example
Wherefore did you leave the party early? [wherefore: adverb]
Example
I am tired, wherefore I will go to bed early tonight. [wherefore: conjunction]
therefore
Example
I studied hard, therefore I passed the exam. [therefore: adverb]
Example
The weather was bad, therefore we canceled the picnic. [therefore: conjunction]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Therefore is more commonly used than wherefore in everyday language. Therefore is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while wherefore is less common and has an archaic connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wherefore and therefore?
Wherefore is typically associated with a more formal tone, while therefore is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
