thus

Thus is an English adverb and sentence adverb with several closely related senses. It can mean in this way or by this method, as in “Treat the fabric thus.” It can also signal consequence or result, roughly equivalent to therefore or hence, as in “The data are inconclusive; thus, further study is required.” In logical and mathematical writing, “thus” is used to introduce a derived conclusion.

Originating in Old English as þus, thus is of Germanic origin. The form reflects the meaning “in this way” and has parallels across other Germanic languages.

In modern usage, thus is relatively formal and common in academic, legal, and philosophical writing. It functions as a manner adverb (modifying how something is done) or as a sentence adverb (marking the result of a preceding argument). When used at the start of a sentence, it is typically followed by a comma. For example, thus, we conclude the hypothesis is unsupported, or thus far meaning up to this point.

See also: therefore, hence, consequently, in this way.