Cool MateThereby
UK /["/ˌðeəˈbaɪ/"]/US /["/ˌðerˈbaɪ/"]/
Definition
used to introduce the result of the action or situation mentioned
In simple words: in that way; as a result
Examples
- Regular exercise strengthens the heart, thereby reducing the risk of heart attack.
Usage notes
Use 'thereby' in formal writing to indicate the result of an action. It's less common in everyday conversation and may sound overly formal.
Grammar pattern
thereby + gerund (verb ending in -ing)
Memory hint
Think of 'there by' as a sign pointing to the result of an action.
Collocations
- thereby improving
- thereby increasing
- thereby allowing
Synonyms
- thus
- hence
- consequently
- accordingly
- as a result
Antonyms
- indirectly
- without effect
- in no way
Common mistakes
- Using 'thereby' in informal speech when it's not appropriate.
- Confusing 'thereby' with 'therefor', which has a different meaning.
- Neglecting to pair 'thereby' with a gerund.