por lo tanto
vs
para poder

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"Por lo tanto" is a phrase which is often translated as "therefore", and "para poder" is a phrase which is often translated as "to be able to". Learn more about the difference between "por lo tanto" and "para poder" below.

por lo tanto(

pohr

loh

tahn

toh

)

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.

para poder(

)

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

phrase

1. (to have the capability)

a. to be able to

Necesito quedarme un rato más en la oficina para poder terminar el reporte.I need to stay a while longer at the office to be able to finish the report.

b. in order to

Tendrás que entrenar diariamente para poder terminar el maratón.You'll have to train every day in order to finish the marathon.

c. so you can

Para poder ser doctora, necesitas estudiar medicina.You need to study medicine, so you can become a doctor.

2. (to have permission)

a. to be allowed to

Me tienes que traer buenas notas para poder salir con tus amigos.You must bring me good grades to be allowed to go out with your friends.

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