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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.'
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.
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.
I'm tired. So, I'll go to bed early.
There was an accident. For that reason, the road is congested.
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.
He didn't study at all. For that reason, he failed the exam.
The store was closed. For that reason, I couldn't buy anything.
電車が遅れた。それで、遅刻した。
The train was delayed. For that reason, I was late.
He took the wrong road. For that reason (and it's his fault), we got lost.
The budget is insufficient. For that reason, the plan was postponed.