These words and phrases articulate the relationships between events, indicating why something happened or the consequences of an action. For example, “because” explains a reason, while “therefore” highlights a result. “Consequently,” “as a result,” “due to,” and “since” are further examples, each with subtle nuances in their application.
Understanding these linguistic cues is crucial for comprehending complex texts and arguments. They provide a roadmap for following the author’s logic, differentiating between premises and conclusions, and discerning the underlying structure of reasoning. Historically, the study of rhetoric and logic has emphasized the importance of clear causal connections in persuasive discourse. Recognizing these connections allows readers to evaluate the validity of arguments and the strength of evidence presented.