Consequentemente

Consequentemente is a Portuguese adverb used to indicate result or consequence, functioning as a conjunctive adverb that links a statement to its outcome. It signals that what follows is a logical or causal effect of what was stated earlier.

Etymology and meaning: The word is formed from the adjective consequente plus the adverbial suffix -mente, and ultimately derives from Latin roots related to following after. In use, it denotes a conclusion or consequence derived from a preceding proposition or event.

Usage and punctuation: Consequentemente is common in formal and written Portuguese. It can join two independent clauses, typically after a semicolon or period, or appear at the beginning of a sentence followed by a comma, as in: “Choveu durante a noite; consequentemente, o jogo foi adiado.” It is also used in more concise academic or technical prose to emphasize results or implications.

Register and synonyms: It is generally considered formal and is often found in scholarly or official texts. Synonyms include por conseguinte, logo, portanto, and assim, depending on the tone and emphasis. European and Brazilian Portuguese speakers both use the term, though frequency can vary by region and style.

Distinction from similar terms: Do not confuse consequentemente with consecutivamente, which means “in a row” or “in sequence.” The latter refers to order or succession rather than a causal result.

See also: por conseguinte; logo; portanto; assim.