Difference Wiki

Since vs. Therefore: What's the Difference?

Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Published on November 13, 2023
"Since" can indicate time or reason, while "therefore" is used to show a conclusion or result.

Key Differences

"Since" can function as a conjunction, preposition, or adverb, and refers to a time period starting in the past and continuing to the present, or it can indicate cause or reason. "Therefore," on the other hand, is an adverb that introduces a conclusion or result based on what has been stated before.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
"Since" is frequently used in sentences such as "Since it's raining, we will stay indoors," where it shows a cause or reason. "Therefore" is often found in sentences like "He didn't study; therefore, he failed the exam," where it indicates a logical conclusion.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
"Since" can initiate a dependent clause, while "therefore" generally appears in the main clause. It's important to note that "therefore" should be used carefully to ensure clarity in connecting cause and effect.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
"Since" is versatile and fits comfortably in both formal and informal contexts. "Therefore" is generally more formal and may appear stiff or overly formal in casual conversation.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Comparison Chart

Function

Conjunction, preposition, adverb
Adverb
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023
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Meaning

Time period or cause
Conclusion or result
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Example

Since it's raining...
Therefore, he failed...
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Usage

Formal and informal
Generally more formal
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Tone

Versatile
Formal
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023

Since and Therefore Definitions

Since

Because; given that.
Since you're not ready, we'll wait.
Janet White
Oct 30, 2023
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Therefore

As a result; consequently.
He was late; therefore, he missed the bus.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 30, 2023

Since

Time period from the past until now.
I haven't seen him since yesterday.
Harlon Moss
Oct 30, 2023

Therefore

Because of that.
The road was wet; therefore, it was slippery.
Harlon Moss
Oct 30, 2023

Since

In light of the fact that.
Since it's raining, bring an umbrella.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 30, 2023

Therefore

For that reason.
She studied hard; therefore, she passed.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023
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Since

From a past time until now.
It's been years since we last met.
Harlon Moss
Oct 30, 2023

Therefore

Used to introduce a logical conclusion.
He's allergic to cats; therefore, he avoids them.
Sara Rehman
Oct 30, 2023

Since

During a period from a specific past time until now.
She has changed since then.
Harlon Moss
Oct 30, 2023

Therefore

By consequence.
There was traffic; therefore, he took a detour.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 30, 2023

Since

From then until now or between then and now
They left town and haven't been here since.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023

Therefore

For that reason or cause; consequently or hence.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023

Since

Before now; ago
A name long since forgotten.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023

Therefore

(conjunctive) Consequently, by or in consequence of that or this cause; referring to something previously stated.
Traditional values will always have a place. Therefore, they will never lose relevance.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023

Since

After some point in the past; at a subsequent time
My friend has since married and moved to California.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 12, 2023

FAQs

What does "since" mean?

"Since" can indicate a time period from the past until now, or it can mean because or given that.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

What is an example of "since" used in a sentence?

"I haven't seen him since yesterday."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 13, 2023

What is an example of "therefore" used in a sentence?

"He was late; therefore, he missed the bus."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Is "therefore" formal or informal?

"Therefore" is generally more formal.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

What are some synonyms for "therefore"?

Some synonyms for "therefore" are "consequently," "hence," and "as a result."
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

Can "since" be used in spoken English?

Yes, "since" can be used in spoken English.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023

What is the grammatical category of "since"?

"Since" can be a conjunction, preposition, or adverb.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

What is the grammatical category of "therefore"?

"Therefore" is an adverb.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

What are some related words to "therefore"?

Some related words to "therefore" are "hence," "thus," and "consequently."
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023

How is "since" commonly used?

"Since" is commonly used to refer to a specific point in time in the past from the present.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023

How is "therefore" commonly used?

"Therefore" is commonly used to introduce a logical conclusion or result.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

What does "therefore" mean?

"Therefore" is used to introduce a conclusion or result.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "since" be used as a preposition?

Yes, "since" can function as a preposition.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023

Is "since" formal or informal?

"Since" can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

Can "therefore" be used in spoken English?

Yes, "therefore" can be used in spoken English, but it may sound formal.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "since" be used in poetry?

Yes, "since" can be used in poetry.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "therefore" be used in poetry?

Yes, "therefore" can be used in poetry.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 13, 2023

Can "therefore" be used as a conjunction?

No, "therefore" is an adverb and cannot function as a conjunction.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023

What are some synonyms for "since"?

Some synonyms for "since" are "because," "as," and "from."
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023

What are some related words to "since"?

Some related words to "since" are "because," "after," and "from."
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera Saeed
Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira Riaz
Sawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.

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