Translation guide
Expresses a logical consequence or cause-and-effect relationship, linking a reason to a result. Japanese offers several options depending on formality, strength of causation, and whether the reason is subjective or objective.
To state a natural, logical result based on a previously mentioned reason. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
The most common and versatile conjunction meaning 'so' or 'therefore'. Used in casual and polite speech, but can sound slightly informal in very formal writing.
雨が降っている。だから、試合は中止だ。
It's raining. For that reason, the game is canceled.
Literally 'for that purpose/reason'. Slightly more formal than だから, often used in writing and presentations. Emphasizes a direct cause-effect link.
需要が増加した。そのため、価格が上昇した。
Demand increased. For that reason, prices rose.
Formal conjunction meaning 'accordingly' or 'therefore'. Common in academic or business contexts. Implies a logical conclusion drawn from the preceding statement.
実験結果は明確である。したがって、仮説は正しいと言える。
The experimental results are clear. For that reason, we can say the hypothesis is correct.
Literary or formal expression meaning 'hence' or 'for that reason'. Often used in philosophical or mathematical writing. Sounds stiff in conversation.
我思う、ゆえに我あり。
I think, therefore I am.
To highlight the specific reason as the cause, often with a nuance of 'due to that' or 'on account of that'. Used when the reason is a noun or situation.
Direct translation of 'for that reason'. Neutral and clear, but can sound slightly stiff. Often used in explanations.
彼は健康上の問題を抱えている。その理由で、仕事を辞めた。
He has health problems. For that reason, he quit his job.
Casual conjunction meaning 'and so' or 'because of that'. Very common in spoken Japanese. Can also be used to prompt someone to continue a story ('And then?').
Implies a negative consequence and often assigns blame or fault. 'Because of that (bad thing)'. Use with caution as it can sound accusatory.
Avoid using そのせいで for positive outcomes or neutral situations; it carries a negative connotation.
彼が道を間違えた。そのせいで、迷子になった。
He took the wrong road. For that reason (and it's his fault), we got lost.
To provide an explanation or justification, often answering 'why?'. Common in dialogue.
Polite form of だから, used to end a sentence when giving a reason. 'That is why.'
なぜ遅れたんですか？…電車が遅れたからです。
Why were you late? ...For that reason (because the train was delayed).
Literally 'for that kind of reason'. Used to summarize a situation and lead to a conclusion. Common in both speech and writing.
予算が足りない。そういうわけで、計画は延期になった。
The budget is insufficient. For that reason, the plan was postponed.
だから is the most versatile and common in everyday speech. そのため is slightly more formal and emphasizes a direct causal link, often used in reports. したがって is formal and logical, typical in academic or business conclusions.
疲れた。だから、早く寝る。
I'm tired. So, I'll go to bed early.
事故があった。そのため、道路が渋滞している。
There was an accident. For that reason, the road is congested.
証拠不十分である。したがって、被告は無罪となる。
The evidence is insufficient. Therefore, the defendant is acquitted.
While その理由で is a direct translation, it can sound unnatural or overly formal in casual conversation. In many cases, だから or それで are more natural choices.
彼は全く勉強しなかった。そのため、試験に落ちた。
He didn't study at all. For that reason, he failed the exam.
店が閉まっていた。だから、何も買えなかった。
The store was closed. For that reason, I couldn't buy anything.
The train was delayed. For that reason, I was late.