Meaning & use
now therefore
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phraseformallegal
Used in legal documents to introduce an action that follows from what has just been stated.
Grammar: It comes at the start of a clause and is usually followed by a comma and then the main statement.
Patterns
- now therefore, [clause]
The parties have agreed on the terms; now therefore, they sign this contract.
The council found the building unsafe; now therefore, it orders the owner to repair it.
All conditions have been met, and now therefore the payment becomes due.
Common combinations
- now therefore, the parties agree
- Now therefore, the parties agree to settle the dispute.
- now therefore, it is ordered
- Now therefore, it is ordered that the case be dismissed.
- now therefore, be it resolved
- Now therefore, be it resolved that the committee approves the budget.
Synonyms and how they differ
- accordingly
- A more general formal adverb meaning 'for that reason'; it can appear in everyday writing, unlike the fixed legal phrase 'now therefore'.
- hence
- A formal connector meaning 'for this reason'; it is shorter and not tied to legal documents.
Commonly confused: now therefore or therefore?
now therefore vs therefore
'Therefore' simply means 'for that reason' and is used in all kinds of writing. 'Now therefore' is a set legal phrase that introduces an official action or decision.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'now therefore' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Now therefore' is a fixed legal phrase that introduces an official action or agreement. It does not fit casual or personal statements like going to the store or liking ice cream.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “now therefore”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.