Usage of '따라서'
'따라서' is a formal conjunctive adverb used to indicate a logical consequence or result. It often appears in written or formal spoken Korean, such as reports, presentations, or news.
Meaning and Nuance
It means 'accordingly' or 'consequently' and connects two clauses where the second clause is a direct result or conclusion of the first.
Common Collocations
- '따라서 ~ 해야 한다' (Therefore, must do ~): used to express necessity based on previous information.
- '따라서 ~ 입니다' (Accordingly, it is ~): used to state a conclusion.
- '따라서 ~ 할 수 있다' (Therefore, can ~): used to indicate possibility or ability resulting from the prior clause.
Register and Usage Notes
'따라서' is more formal than everyday connectors like '그래서' or '그러니까'. It is common in academic, business, or official contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '따라서' with '그래서'. While both mean 'so' or 'therefore', '따라서' is more formal and used for logical conclusions, whereas '그래서' is more conversational and causal. Use '따라서' when you want to sound formal or write logically structured sentences.