Ainsi

Ainsi is a French adverb meaning "thus," "so," or "in this way." It is used to express manner, result, or emphasis and is common in formal writing and literary styles, as well as in everyday speech when a precise or elevated tone is desired.

Its origin lies in Old French, where it appeared as a demonstrative adverb meaning "in this way." It is related to similar expressions in other Romance languages and has remained a fixed part of modern French as the single word ainsi.

In usage, ainsi can introduce a conclusion or consequence, indicate manner, or begin a sentence for emphasis. Examples include: "Ainsi, nous concluons le chapitre," meaning "Thus, we conclude the chapter," and "Parlez ainsi," meaning "Speak in this way." It can also appear with objects or clauses in phrases such as "ainsi que," which means "as well as." For instance, "Le professeur, ainsi que ses collègues, était présent" shows how ainsi que adds another element to a statement.

The form tends to be more formal or literary than everyday speech, where conjunctions like donc or alors are more common for indicating consequence. Pronounced [ɛ̃.si], ainsi remains a versatile tool for signaling manner or result in both written and spoken French.