pertanto
Lemma: pertanto
Translation: therefore; thus; consequently; hence; so; as a result (conjunction)
Etymology: Derived from the combination of 'per' (for, through) and 'tanto' (so much, to such an extent). The construction literally means 'for so much' or 'through so much', which evolved to express a logical conclusion or consequence. It shares a conceptual formation with English phrases like 'for that reason' or 'on that account', though it's expressed as a single word in Italian.
Example Usage
Non abbiamo abbastanza fondi, pertanto dobbiamo cancellare il progetto.
We don't have enough funds, therefore we must cancel the project.
Ha piovuto tutta la notte, pertanto le strade sono allagate.
It rained all night, consequently the streets are flooded.
Il treno è in ritardo, pertanto arriveremo tardi alla riunione.
The train is delayed, thus we will arrive late to the meeting.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'per tanto' as 'for so much' - after considering so much information, therefore a conclusion follows.
- Connect it to 'pertaining to' in English - the conclusion pertains to what was just discussed.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Used frequently in formal writing, academic texts, and logical arguments. It appears in legal documents, scientific papers, and formal speeches to indicate a logical conclusion based on previously stated facts or premises.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'pertanto' means 'therefore' and indicates a logical conclusion, 'intanto' means 'meanwhile' or 'in the meantime' and indicates something happening simultaneously.
Confused word:
Prepara la cena, intanto io apparecchio la tavola.
Prepare dinner, meanwhile I'll set the table.
Notes: Both are connecting words but serve different logical functions - 'pertanto' connects cause and effect, while 'intanto' connects simultaneous events.
Mnemonic: 'Pertanto' has 'per' (for) suggesting a reason or cause, while 'intanto' has 'in' suggesting being 'in' a time period.
Explanation: 'Pertanto' indicates a logical conclusion, while 'peraltro' means 'moreover' or 'besides' and adds additional information without necessarily indicating causality.
Confused word:
Il film è interessante, peraltro è anche molto divertente.
The movie is interesting, moreover it's also very funny.
Notes: Both are formal connectors but serve different purposes in argumentation.
Mnemonic: 'Pertanto' leads to a conclusion, while 'peraltro' adds another point ('altro' means 'other').