These cause and effect connectors are conjunctive adverbs, not coordinating conjunctions, so they need a semicolon or full stop, never a bare comma, as in sales fell; therefore, we cut prices. Thus suits academic writing and can take a present participle, while hence often introduces an elliptical noun phrase dropping the verb to be.
Grammar Rule
These connectors are conjunctive adverbs, not coordinating conjunctions, so they cannot join two independent clauses with only a comma; that creates a comma splice. Thus is common in academic writing and can be followed by a present participle. Hence often introduces an elliptical noun phrase, omitting the verb to be. As a consequence can take of + noun; for this reason points back to a reason already stated.
Cause and Effect Connectors with Nuance: Rules and Examples
| Connector | Nuance | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Consequently / Therefore | neutral; semicolon/full stop, never a bare comma | Sales fell; therefore, we cut prices. |
| Thus | academic; + present participle | The firm automated production, thus reducing costs. |
| Hence | often elliptical noun phrase, drops the verb to be | The bridge was closed, hence the diversion. |
| As a consequence / For this reason | as a consequence of + noun; for this reason refers back | As a consequence of the tariffs, prices rose. |
Remember: Never join with a bare comma — use a semicolon or full stop; hence often drops the verb before a noun phrase.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using cause and effect connectors correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
C1-42 Cause and Effect Connectors with Nuance
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Frequently Asked Questions
How should consequently or therefore be punctuated?
With a semicolon or full stop, never a bare comma, as in sales fell; therefore, we cut prices.
What structure can follow thus?
A present participle, as in the firm automated production, thus reducing costs.
What does hence often introduce?
An elliptical noun phrase, dropping the verb to be, as in the bridge was closed, hence the diversion.
What preposition follows as a consequence?
Of, before a noun, as in as a consequence of the tariffs, prices rose.