Translation guide
This English phrase connects a cause to its effect. In Japanese, the most natural equivalent depends on whether the result is a direct consequence, a logical conclusion, or a more general outcome. Common patterns include その結果, したがって, and それで, but learners should be careful not to overuse literal translations in casual speech.
Use when the result follows directly from a previously mentioned action or event, often in formal or written contexts.
Literally 'that result'. Very common in both spoken and written Japanese to introduce a direct outcome. Neutral formality.
彼は毎日練習した。その結果、試合に勝った。
He practiced every day. As a result, he won the match.
Means 'as a result' or 'consequently'. Slightly more formal and often used in writing or speeches.
新システムを導入した。結果として、効率が上がった。
We introduced a new system. As a result, efficiency improved.
Literally 'for that reason'. Used for direct cause-and-effect, similar to 'therefore'. Common in both speech and writing.
電車が遅れた。そのため、会議に間に合わなかった。
The train was delayed. As a result, I was late for the meeting.
Use when drawing a conclusion from reasoning, often in formal or academic contexts.
A formal conjunction meaning 'therefore' or 'consequently'. Common in academic writing, presentations, and formal speech.
このデータは不十分だ。したがって、結論は出せない。
This data is insufficient. As a result, we cannot draw a conclusion.
A literary or formal word for 'therefore'. Rare in everyday conversation; used in philosophical or mathematical contexts.
Use in everyday spoken Japanese to explain what happened next as a result.
A very common casual conjunction meaning 'and so' or 'as a result'. Used to continue a story or explanation.
昨日は雨だった。それで、家にいた。
It rained yesterday. As a result, I stayed home.
Means 'so' or 'therefore'. Very common in casual speech, but can sound blunt if overused in formal settings.
Use when the result is a natural outcome of a situation, not necessarily a direct cause.
Means 'as a result of that' or 'due to that'. Often used in explanations of changes or effects.
法律が変わった。それによって、手続きが簡単になった。
The law changed. As a result, the procedure became easier.
Literally 'this result'. Used when referring to a result just mentioned, often in formal reports.
実験を行った。この結果、新事実が判明した。
We conducted an experiment. As a result, a new fact came to light.
Directly translating 'as a result' as 結果として in casual conversation can sound stiff. Use それで or だから instead.
寝坊した。それで遅刻した。
I overslept. As a result, I was late.
その結果 is neutral and can be used in both speech and writing, while それで is more casual and conversational. したがって is formal and logical.
努力した。その結果、成功した。
I made an effort. As a result, I succeeded.
道が混んでた。それで遅れた。
The road was crowded. As a result, I was late.
I think, therefore I am.
I have no money. As a result, I can't buy it.