JLPT N2 reference · Formal connections
したがって
It introduces a logical consequence in formal reasoning, reports, and explanations.
Core meaning and form
Use したがって at the start of a sentence or clause following stated grounds. The conclusion must genuinely follow from the preceding proposition; it is not a generic sequence word.
- Form: Use したがって at the start of a sentence or clause following stated grounds.
- Core use: It introduces a logical consequence in formal reasoning, reports, and explanations.
- Context: The conclusion must genuinely follow from the preceding proposition; it is not a generic sequence word.
Examples in context
需要が減少した。したがって、生産を調整する必要がある。Juyō ga genshō shita. Shitagatte, seisan o chōsei suru hitsuyō ga aru.Demand fell. Therefore, production must be adjusted.
証拠が不十分である。したがって、断定はできない。Shōko ga fujūbun de aru. Shitagatte, dantei wa dekinai.The evidence is insufficient; therefore, no firm conclusion is possible.
規則が変更された。したがって、再申請が必要だ。Kisoku ga henkō sareta. Shitagatte, sai-shinsei ga hitsuyō da.The rules changed; consequently, reapplication is necessary.
Common errors
- Do not select this pattern from an English translation alone; check its attachment and discourse function.
- Keep the surrounding sentence in a consistent plain, polite, spoken, or written register.
Quick summary
- Use したがって at the start of a sentence or clause following stated grounds.
- It introduces a logical consequence in formal reasoning, reports, and explanations.
- The conclusion must genuinely follow from the preceding proposition; it is not a generic sequence word.