だからSo; that’s why
だから takes a reason that has already been stated or understood and introduces the speaker’s conclusion, decision, suggestion, or request: “so” or “that’s why.”
How it works
First give the reason. Then begin the next statement with だから. The second statement is something the speaker sees as following from that reason; it does not have to be an automatic event.
A conclusion
この店は月曜日が休みだ。だから、今日は開いていない。
This shop is closed on Mondays. That’s why it isn’t open today.
AnalyzeA decision
明日は朝が早い。だから、もう寝る。
I have an early morning tomorrow, so I’m going to bed now.
AnalyzeThe result here is the speaker’s decision, not something that happened automatically.
A polite request
今、会議室に入れますか。
Can I enter the meeting room now?
Analyze三時まで使用中です。ですから、四時にお越しください。
It is in use until three. So, please come at four.
Analyzeですから matches the polite wording throughout the reply.
A conclusion versus a resulting event
だから highlights the conclusion that the speaker draws. By contrast, それで more readily reports what happened as a result or continues a sequence of events. English may translate both as “so,” so choose according to the speaker’s purpose.
朝から電車が止まっていた。それで、会社に遅れた。
The trains had been stopped since morning, so I was late for work.
AnalyzeThis reports the event that resulted from the train stoppage rather than presenting a decision or judgment.
More examples
外は寒い。だから、コートを着よう。
It’s cold outside, so let’s wear coats.
Analyze今日は店が休みだ。だから、また明日来よう。
The shop is closed today, so let’s come back tomorrow.
Analyze彼は毎日練習している。だから、上手なんだ。
He practices every day. That’s why he is good at it.
Analyzeもう夜遅い。だから、続きは明日にしよう。
It’s already late at night, so let’s continue tomorrow.
Analyze電車が止まっている。だから、駅がこんなに混んでいるんだ。
The trains have stopped. That’s why the station is so crowded.
Analyzeこの道は工事中です。ですから、駅へは別の道をお使いください。
This road is under construction. Therefore, please take another route to the station.
Analyze