följaktligen

Följaktligen is a Swedish adverb meaning consequently, in consequence, or therefore. It is used to indicate a logical result or conclusion that follows from what has been stated previously. The term is common in formal or written Swedish, including academic, legal, and editorial contexts, but it is less frequent in everyday spoken language where more common connectors such as alltså, därför, or så används are preferred.

In usage, följaktligen typically introduces the consequence of a preceding clause or argument. It can appear after a semicolon or at the beginning of a sentence to signal the outcome of reasoning or evidence. Examples: Bevisen var tillräckliga; följaktligen beslutade rätten att fälla honom. Vägen var blockerad av snö, följaktligen ställdes tåget in. The word helps to structure logical flow and foreground the linkage between cause and effect.

Etymology and style notes: följaktligen is a compound formed from följa ('to follow') and a suffix pattern used to create adverbs, aligning with other formal Swedish words that express consequence. It is regarded as a literary or formal term and is often chosen for precision or emphasis in reasoned prose rather than casual speech.

Synonyms and related terms include alltså, därför, således, and consequently. The choice among these depends on register and nuance, with följaktligen typically signaling a clear, directive conclusion drawn from prior statements.