In 15 Seconds
- Links a conclusion to prior evidence.
- Shows logical reasoning clearly.
- Best for academic and professional contexts.
- Avoid in casual chats; sounds too stiff.
Meaning
Okay, imagine you're building a case for something, like proving a point in a debate or explaining why a certain decision was made. `This argument follows from` is your way of saying, 'Hey, the reason I'm saying X is because Y is already established or true.' It's like pointing to the foundation of your logic – the previous statement or fact that makes your current point totally make sense. It’s super useful for showing clear, logical connections, making your reasoning sound solid and well-thought-out.
Key Examples
3 of 12Academic Essay Conclusion
The data indicates a significant increase in user engagement. This argument follows from the observed correlation between new feature releases and website traffic spikes.
The data indicates a significant increase in user engagement. This argument follows from the observed correlation between new feature releases and website traffic spikes.
Business Report Summary
Our Q3 profits exceeded expectations significantly. This argument follows from the successful implementation of our cost-saving measures.
Our Q3 profits exceeded expectations significantly. This argument follows from the successful implementation of our cost-saving measures.
Texting a friend about a documentary
The documentary showed how pollution levels dropped drastically. This argument follows from the introduction of stricter environmental laws.
The documentary showed how pollution levels dropped drastically. This argument follows from the introduction of stricter environmental laws.
Cultural Background
In Western universities, 'linear logic' is the gold standard. Using 'follows from' signals that you are playing by the rules of rational, evidence-based inquiry. In US and UK law, 'precedent' is everything. A judge's ruling must 'follow from' previous cases (stare decisis). In multinational corporations, 'data-driven decision making' is a buzzword. This phrase is used to make decisions seem objective rather than personal. Scientists use this to separate 'observation' from 'interpretation.' The interpretation must logically follow from the observation.
The 'Because' Test
If you can replace the phrase with 'is because of' and it still makes sense, you are using 'follows from' correctly. If you need to use 'therefore,' you should use 'it follows that.'
Don't Overuse
Using this phrase more than once or twice in a single essay can make your writing feel repetitive and 'heavy.' Use synonyms like 'is based on' or 'derives from' to keep it fresh.
In 15 Seconds
- Links a conclusion to prior evidence.
- Shows logical reasoning clearly.
- Best for academic and professional contexts.
- Avoid in casual chats; sounds too stiff.
What It Means
This phrase is all about connection. It links one idea or conclusion to a previous one. You're showing that your current point isn't pulled out of thin air. It's a direct consequence of something else. Think of it like dominoes falling. One knocks over the next. This phrase marks the 'knocked over' domino. It's a signpost for logical progression. It adds weight and credibility to your statements. It makes your reasoning transparent. You’re guiding your audience step-by-step. It’s about building a solid chain of thought. You’re not just stating facts. You’re showing how they relate.
How To Use It
Use this when you want to explicitly link your current statement to a prior one. It's perfect for essays, academic papers, or formal presentations. You can also use it in serious discussions. It signals a logical deduction. For example, 'The company's profits increased. This argument follows from the new marketing strategy.' Here, the profit increase is directly linked to the strategy. It’s a clear cause-and-effect signal. You can also use it to explain a decision. 'We need to cut costs. This argument follows from our current financial report.' It shows the report is the basis for the decision. It’s a sophisticated way to explain your reasoning. You can even use it humorously. 'My cat is fluffy. This argument follows from the fact he sheds everywhere.' It's all about showing the logical link.
Formality & Register
This phrase leans towards the formal side. You'll often see it in academic writing. Think research papers, legal documents, or policy briefs. It sounds quite intellectual. It's not something you'd typically text your best friend. Unless you're both history buffs! In professional settings, it's great for reports. It's also good for presentations. It adds a layer of seriousness. Using it in very casual chat might sound a bit stiff. It might even sound pretentious. But in the right context, it's perfect. It elevates your language. It shows you're thinking critically. It’s like wearing a suit to a job interview. It signals professionalism. It’s not overly stuffy, though. It’s just precise. It has a certain gravitas. It's a tool for clear, structured thinking. Imagine a lawyer making a case. This phrase fits right in. It’s not casual, but it’s not robotic either. It’s measured and thoughtful.
Real-Life Examples
- In a science paper: 'The experiment showed a significant temperature increase. This argument follows from the observed molecular activity.'
- In a business meeting: 'Our market share has declined. This argument follows from increased competition in the last quarter.'
- In a philosophical essay: 'The concept of free will is challenged by determinism. This argument follows from the premise that all events have prior causes.'
- In a legal brief: 'The defendant was present at the scene. This argument follows from eyewitness testimony placing him there.'
- In a movie review: 'The plot became predictable. This argument follows from the overuse of common tropes.'
- In a political analysis: 'Public trust has eroded. This argument follows from recent scandals and lack of transparency.'
- In a historical analysis: 'The revolution was inevitable. This argument follows from the widespread social unrest and economic hardship.'
- In a literary critique: 'The character's motivation is unclear. This argument follows from the author's sparse use of internal monologue.'
- In a technical report: 'The system failed under load. This argument follows from the stress test results.'
- In a debate club: 'We must invest in renewable energy. This argument follows from the urgent need to address climate change.'
- In a product review: 'This phone's battery life is poor. This argument follows from my experience using it for a full day.'
- In a personal reflection: 'I decided to change careers. This argument follows from feeling unfulfilled in my previous role.'
When To Use It
Use This argument follows from when you need to demonstrate a clear logical link. It's ideal for academic or professional writing. Use it when presenting research findings. It’s great for explaining complex decisions. Employ it when you want to sound authoritative. It works well in debates or formal discussions. Use it to show the foundation of your reasoning. It’s perfect for persuasive writing. Think of it as building a strong case. You want to show each step is connected. It adds structure to your thoughts. It signals intellectual rigor. It’s a tool for clarity. Use it when you want to be precise. It leaves little room for misinterpretation. It’s like drawing a map for your audience. They can see exactly how you got there. It's also useful when someone questions your logic. You can point to the preceding facts. It’s a way to defend your conclusions. It's a classic phrase for logical thinkers. Did you know it's often used in logic puzzles? Well, maybe not *that* phrase, but the concept is key!
When NOT To Use It
Avoid This argument follows from in casual conversation. Texting your friends? Probably not. Sending a quick meme? Definitely not. It sounds overly formal and out of place. Don't use it in informal emails either. Unless your workplace is exceptionally formal. It can make your writing seem stiff. It can sound a bit pretentious. It might even make you seem unapproachable. If you're just sharing a quick thought, skip it. If you're telling a funny story, leave it out. It's not suited for emotional outbursts. It's for reasoned, logical connections. Using it in a very relaxed setting is like wearing a tuxedo to a beach party. It just doesn't fit the vibe. Think about your audience. Are they expecting academic rigor? Or just a friendly chat? Choose your words accordingly. It’s better to be too simple than too complex. Especially if you risk sounding like a robot. We don't want that! Unless you're role-playing a robot, of course.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is using it too often. Overusing this phrase makes your writing repetitive. It can sound robotic. Another mistake is using it in the wrong context. It's too formal for casual chats. It can sound awkward or pretentious. Sometimes people use it when the connection isn't truly logical. They force a link where there isn't one. This weakens their argument. It's like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. The connection needs to be natural and evident. Also, confusing it with similar phrases can happen. Forgetting the 'from' part is a classic slip-up. It changes the meaning entirely. Stick to showing the *source* of the argument. Don't just state the argument itself. Remember, it's about the *basis* for your conclusion.
Common Variations
While This argument follows from is quite specific, related ideas can be expressed differently. You might hear:
- 'This is a consequence of...' (Similar, emphasizes outcome)
- 'This stems from...' (Implies origin or source)
- 'This is based on...' (Highlights the foundation)
- 'As a result of this...' (Focuses on the cause-effect link)
- 'Therefore...' or 'Hence...' (More concise logical connectors, often used at the start of the conclusion)
- 'This conclusion is drawn from...' (Very formal, academic)
- 'It follows that...' (Slightly less formal, common in reasoning)
- 'The logic here is...' (More explanatory, less formal)
These variations offer slightly different nuances. They might be more or less formal. Some emphasize the cause, others the effect. Choosing the right one depends on your audience and purpose. It's like having different tools for different jobs. You wouldn't use a hammer to screw in a lightbulb, right? Well, maybe you would, but it's not ideal!
Real Conversations
Speaker 1: So, the latest sales figures are down by 15% this quarter.
Speaker 2: Really? That's worrying. Why do you think that is?
Speaker 1: Well, this argument follows from the fact that our main competitor launched a huge discount campaign last month. We lost a lot of price-sensitive customers.
Speaker 2: Ah, that makes sense. We should probably look at our pricing strategy then.
Speaker 1: I'm thinking of quitting my job and becoming a full-time streamer.
Speaker 2: Whoa, that's a big leap! What's making you consider that?
Speaker 1: This argument follows from the fact that my channel just hit 1 million subscribers and the ad revenue is growing exponentially. Plus, I hate my current boss.
Speaker 2: Haha, okay, the boss part is valid. But still, streaming is tough!
Quick FAQ
- What's the main point?
It shows a logical connection between ideas.
- Is it formal?
Yes, generally quite formal.
- Can I use it casually?
Not really, it sounds too stiff.
- What if the link isn't strong?
Don't use it; it weakens your point.
- Are there simpler ways to say it?
Yes, like 'so' or 'because'.
Usage Notes
This phrase is strictly for formal contexts like academic writing, legal arguments, or professional reports. Using it in casual conversation or informal emails will sound unnatural and pretentious. Ensure the logical connection you're highlighting is clear and well-supported by prior evidence.
The 'Because' Test
If you can replace the phrase with 'is because of' and it still makes sense, you are using 'follows from' correctly. If you need to use 'therefore,' you should use 'it follows that.'
Don't Overuse
Using this phrase more than once or twice in a single essay can make your writing feel repetitive and 'heavy.' Use synonyms like 'is based on' or 'derives from' to keep it fresh.
Academic Authority
Using this phrase correctly instantly boosts your 'academic authority.' It makes you sound like a serious researcher who understands logical structures.
Examples
12The data indicates a significant increase in user engagement. This argument follows from the observed correlation between new feature releases and website traffic spikes.
The data indicates a significant increase in user engagement. This argument follows from the observed correlation between new feature releases and website traffic spikes.
Connects the conclusion (increased engagement) to the evidence (correlation with new features).
Our Q3 profits exceeded expectations significantly. This argument follows from the successful implementation of our cost-saving measures.
Our Q3 profits exceeded expectations significantly. This argument follows from the successful implementation of our cost-saving measures.
Explains the reason for high profits by linking it to cost-saving actions.
The documentary showed how pollution levels dropped drastically. This argument follows from the introduction of stricter environmental laws.
The documentary showed how pollution levels dropped drastically. This argument follows from the introduction of stricter environmental laws.
Explains the cause of the pollution drop, linking it to new laws.
Our latest research shows a 20% improvement in focus. This argument follows from the daily meditation practice we implemented.
Our latest research shows a 20% improvement in focus. This argument follows from the daily meditation practice we implemented.
Connects the research finding to the specific practice that caused it.
My resume demonstrates a proven ability to increase sales by over 30% in previous roles. This argument follows from my consistent track record of exceeding targets.
My resume demonstrates a proven ability to increase sales by over 30% in previous roles. This argument follows from my consistent track record of exceeding targets.
Links the claim of sales ability to the evidence of exceeding targets.
The motion to increase funding for arts education must be supported. This argument follows from the proven link between arts education and improved cognitive development in students.
The motion to increase funding for arts education must be supported. This argument follows from the proven link between arts education and improved cognitive development in students.
Establishes the logical basis for supporting the motion.
My dog always brings me his leash when he wants a walk. This argument follows from the fact that he’s incredibly smart, or maybe just very demanding.
My dog always brings me his leash when he wants a walk. This argument follows from the fact that he’s incredibly smart, or maybe just very demanding.
Uses the phrase humorously to link a behavior to a presumed cause.
I've decided to move to a smaller apartment. This argument follows from my desire to reduce my living expenses and simplify my life.
I've decided to move to a smaller apartment. This argument follows from my desire to reduce my living expenses and simplify my life.
Clearly states the reason behind a personal decision.
✗ Hey, I'm gonna be late. This argument follows from traffic being crazy. → ✓ Hey, I'm gonna be late because traffic is crazy.
✗ Hey, I'm gonna be late. This argument follows from traffic being crazy. → ✓ Hey, I'm gonna be late because traffic is crazy.
The phrase is too formal for a casual text message.
✗ The economic downturn, this argument follows from global supply chain disruptions, necessitates immediate fiscal policy adjustments.
✗ The economic downturn, this argument follows from global supply chain disruptions, necessitates immediate fiscal policy adjustments.
The phrase is misplaced and makes the sentence grammatically awkward and unclear.
The detective suddenly realized the butler was the killer. This argument follows from the subtle clues he noticed earlier about the butler's muddy shoes.
The detective suddenly realized the butler was the killer. This argument follows from the subtle clues he noticed earlier about the butler's muddy shoes.
Connects the realization to the preceding evidence presented in the film.
Many users are complaining about the latest software update. This argument follows from the surge in negative feedback on forums and social media.
Many users are complaining about the latest software update. This argument follows from the surge in negative feedback on forums and social media.
Links the observation of complaints to the evidence found online.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct preposition and verb form.
The conclusion that the climate is changing _______ _______ the data collected over the last century.
We use the simple present 'follows' for logical truths and the preposition 'from' for the source.
Which sentence is the most appropriate for a formal legal brief?
Select the best option:
This uses the correct register, grammar, and logical structure.
Match the premise to the argument that follows from it.
Premise vs. Argument
Each pair shows a logical consequence where the second part 'follows from' the first.
Fill in the missing formal response.
Professor: 'Why do you claim this poem is a satire?' Student: 'That _______ _______ the poet's exaggerated use of heroic couplets to describe trivial tasks.'
The student is identifying the source of their argument in a formal academic setting.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Logical Strength
Practice Bank
4 exercisesThe conclusion that the climate is changing _______ _______ the data collected over the last century.
We use the simple present 'follows' for logical truths and the preposition 'from' for the source.
Select the best option:
This uses the correct register, grammar, and logical structure.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Each pair shows a logical consequence where the second part 'follows from' the first.
Professor: 'Why do you claim this poem is a satire?' Student: 'That _______ _______ the poet's exaggerated use of heroic couplets to describe trivial tasks.'
The student is identifying the source of their argument in a formal academic setting.
🎉 Score: /4
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsEssentially, yes, but it is much more formal and emphasizes the *logical necessity* rather than just a simple reason.
Only if you are being ironic or funny. It's too formal for texting.
If you have multiple arguments, you say 'These arguments follow from...'
No. 'Follows by' is used for physical sequences (e.g., 'A is followed by B'), not logical derivation.
Yes, it is equally common in both British and American academic and legal English.
Yes, e.g., 'From this premise, the argument follows.'
Yes, if you are explaining your reasoning for a business decision. It sounds professional.
No, you can say 'This conclusion follows from...' or 'This result follows from...'
'Follows from' is stronger; it implies that the conclusion is the *only* logical one possible.
You can say 'The argument followed from...', but the present tense is more common for logical truths.
Related Phrases
It follows that
similarTherefore; as a result.
Is predicated on
synonymTo be based on a specific foundation.
Stemming from
similarOriginating from.
Consequent upon
specialized formHappening as a result of.
Non-sequitur
contrastA statement that does NOT follow logically.