entonces
vs
por lo tanto

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"Entonces" is an adverb which is often translated as "then", and "por lo tanto" is a phrase which is often translated as "therefore". Learn more about the difference between "entonces" and "por lo tanto" below.

entonces(

ehn

tohn

sehs

)

An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).

adverb

1. (introducing a conclusion)

a. then

Si ellos están aquí, entonces, ¿quién está en casa?If they're here, then who's at home?

2. (at that time)

a. then

Éramos muy felices entonces.We were very happy then.

3. (in that case)

a. so

¿Perdimos el tren? Entonces, ¿qué hacemos?We missed the bus? So, what should we do?

por lo tanto(

)

A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).

phrase

1. (for that reason)

a. therefore

Has incurrido en una infracción, por lo tanto vas a la cárcel.You have broken the law; therefore, you are going to prison.

b. so

Te trato con respeto, por lo tanto espero que hagas lo mismo por mí.I treat you with respect, so I expect you to do the same for me.

c. thus (formal)

Firmó un contrato con nosotros, por lo tanto esperamos que cumpla con sus obligaciones.You signed a contract with us, thus we expect you to honor your obligations.

d. hence (formal)

Su rival político amenazó con ir a la prensa, por lo tanto se retiró de la carrera.His political rival threatened to go to the media, hence he withdrew from the race.

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