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por lo tanto means therefore — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 5, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

por lo tanto

expression • /[por lo TAN-toh]/

therefore

Example:

Está lloviendo, por lo tanto cancelamos.

It’s raining, therefore we cancel.

🧠 What does por lo tanto mean?

Por lo tanto is a Spanish adverbial phrase that means "therefore" or "as a result." It's used to introduce a logical conclusion based on a preceding statement or clause. It indicates a cause-and-effect relationship and adds a touch of formality to your speech or writing.

📚 Extra examples

  • Estudié mucho para el examen; por lo tanto, saqué una buena nota.
    I studied hard for the exam; therefore, I got a good grade.
  • No tengo dinero; por lo tanto, no puedo ir al cine.
    I don't have any money; therefore, I can't go to the movies.
  • El tráfico está terrible; por lo tanto, llegaremos tarde.
    The traffic is terrible; therefore, we'll be late.
  • Ella es alérgica a los gatos; por lo tanto, no podemos tener uno.
    She is allergic to cats; therefore, we can't have one.
  • Llovió toda la noche; por lo tanto, el jardín está muy mojado.
    It rained all night; therefore, the garden is very wet.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'entonces' and 'así que' can often be used in place of 'por lo tanto,' they are slightly less formal. 'Por lo tanto' adds a more sophisticated and reasoned tone.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "por lo tanto"

Synonyms: en consecuencia, así que, por consiguiente, por ende

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'therefore' in Spanish?
The most common and natural way to say 'therefore' in Spanish is 'por lo tanto.'
How do you pronounce 'por lo tanto' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'por lo TAN-to.' The stress falls on the last syllable of 'tanto.'
How do you use 'por lo tanto' in a sentence?
Use 'por lo tanto' to connect two clauses where the second is a consequence of the first. It usually comes after a semicolon or period, followed by a comma. For example: 'No tengo tiempo; por lo tanto, no puedo ayudarte.'
What is the English translation of 'por lo tanto'?
'Por lo tanto' translates to 'therefore', 'consequently', 'thus', or 'as a result' in English.
Does 'por lo tanto' change for gender or number?
No, 'por lo tanto' is an invariable adverbial phrase, meaning it doesn't change form based on gender or number.
Is 'por lo tanto' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, it's common in both written and spoken Spanish, though it's slightly more formal than some alternatives like 'entonces' or 'así que.'
Does 'por lo tanto' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'por lo tanto' has a very straightforward meaning and no slang or double meanings to worry about.
Is 'por lo tanto' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the usage and meaning are consistent across Spain and Latin America.

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