It is correct to start sentences with “thus” in formal and informal English. Furthermore, the word “thus” is formal and has the same meaning as “therefore” or “consequently.” E.g., “He speaks fluent English. Thus, he did very well on the test.”
Starting sentences with the term “thus” is a common practice, and the meaning is the same as “consequently” or “therefore.”
“Thus” shows the result, consequence, or conclusion of a particular action. Therefore, it is always tied to the information that precedes it.
Here are some examples of “thus” in a sentence:
- They crashed the car on the way home. Thus, they had to walk the rest of the way.
- We caught him stealing company funds. Thus, we fired him and reported him to the police.
Furthermore, you can also use the term “thus far” at the start of a sentence, which means “up to now.”
- Thus far, I have not seen him.
We have explained the basics of starting a sentence with “thus.” However, perhaps you still have doubts about using “thus” in academic writing. If so, keep reading to learn how to include “thus” in an essay.
We’ll also show some synonyms you can use in formal writing and informal writing.
Can You Start a Sentence With “Thus” in Formal Writing?
The word “thus” is a formal word that you can use to begin sentences in formal and academic writing.
For example, you can use the word “thus” to show the result or consequences of something you mentioned earlier in the text.
Here are some examples of how “thus” appears in a formal text:
- Helium condenses at a temperature of -276 degrees. Thus, most thermometers are incapable of tracking the temperature progression.
- The worm can live and survive at altitudes of up to 4000m. Thus, there are few predators at that altitude.
The term “thus” is sufficiently formal for any formal text. However, if you wish to mix things up a little, you could use one of the following synonyms for “thus”:
- Consequently
- Resultingly
- Therefore
Can You Start a Sentence With “Thus” in Informal Writing?
You can use the word “thus” in informal writing.
However, it is quite a formal word, so it is more common in business emails and correspondence than in everyday messaging.
Here are some examples of how “thus” looks in an informal context:
- The event starts at 6 pm. Thus, you need to arrive at 5:45 pm at the latest.
- She lost all her money in a telephone scam. Thus, she feels quite foolish.
Considering that “thus” is quite formal, you may prefer a slightly less formal alternative in everyday messaging.
For example:
- For that reason
- So
- So far
- Thereby