donc

A2

so, therefore, thus

ConsequenceConclusionNeutral

A versatile connector used to express consequence or logical conclusion. Acceptable in both formal and informal contexts.

Usage

Can be used in both written and spoken French. Often placed after the subject in formal French.

Examples

Je pense, donc je suis.

I think, therefore I am.

Context: Famous philosophical statement (Descartes)

Il est malade, donc il ne viendra pas.

He's sick, so he won't come.

Context: Simple consequence

Vous avez donc décidé de partir ?

So you've decided to leave?

Context: Conclusion placed after the subject (more formal)

Synonyms & Alternatives

par conséquentainsialorsdu coup

Important Notes

Unlike 'du coup', 'donc' is appropriate for all contexts including formal writing and academic texts.