Translation guide
The English word 'hence' is a formal adverb meaning 'for this reason' or 'therefore'. It is used to introduce a logical consequence. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on formality, whether it's spoken or written, and the strength of the causal link.
therefore (formal, written)
Most direct equivalent for logical conclusions in formal writing.
because of that (neutral)
Neutral and widely used in both speech and writing.
Introduce a result or conclusion based on the previous statement, typically in formal or written contexts.
Standard formal conjunction meaning 'therefore' or 'consequently'. Used in academic, business, and formal writing.
He hid the evidence; hence, he was considered guilty.
Literary or mathematical 'therefore'. Often used in logic, philosophy, or very formal writing. Can sound archaic in daily speech.
Slightly more emphatic than ゆえに alone, meaning 'for that reason'. Used in formal arguments.
Express 'so' or 'that's why' in everyday conversation.
Indicate a result without strong formality or casualness.
Express 'from now' or 'from this time', as in 'five years hence'. This usage is rare in modern English and even rarer in Japanese equivalents.
Do not try to translate 'hence' word-for-word. Japanese uses conjunctions like だから or したがって at the beginning of a sentence, or connects clauses with ので/から. There is no single adverb that works in all cases.
だから is casual, なので is polite/neutral, したがって is formal/written. Choose based on context. Using したがって in casual speech sounds stiff.
I'm tired; hence, I'm going to bed. (casual)
I'm tired; hence, I'm going to bed. (polite)
我思う、ゆえに我あり。
I think, hence I am.
この計画はリスクが高い。それゆえ、実行すべきではない。
This plan is high-risk; hence, it should not be carried out.
The train is delayed; hence, I'll be a little late.
The roads were crowded; hence, I was late.
今後10年間の計画を立てる。
We make plans for the decade hence.