pertanto

Pertanto is an Italian adverb meaning "therefore" or "hence." It functions as a conjunction that introduces a conclusion, result, or inference drawn from previous statements. In formal and written Italian, it is commonly used to signal logical consequence; in everyday speech it appears but is often replaced by less formal synonyms such as "quindi" or "dunque."

Etymology and history: The word derives from Latin per tantum, literally "to such extent" or "for that reason," and entered Italian with the sense of consequence. It has remained a formal marker of deduction, typically preferred in academic, legal, and journalistic writing.

Usage: Pertanto is typically placed at the start of a clause or sentence, often following a semicolon or after a previous sentence. It expresses a result or conclusion based on the preceding statement. It generally accompanies the indicative mood in factual discourse; in informal contexts, other connectors may be chosen to soften the tone.

Examples: Le risorse sono scarse; pertanto non possiamo procedere con il piano. Pertanto, è necessaria una revisione. Lo studio non è stato replicato; pertanto i risultati richiedono cautela.

See also: Dunque, quindi, perciò; avverbi connettivi italiani.