infolgedessen
infolgedessen em 30 segundos
- Infolgedessen is a formal adverb meaning 'consequently' or 'as a result.'
- It is primarily used in formal writing, news, and academic contexts.
- It requires the verb to be in the second position of the sentence.
- It links a cause in one sentence to a result in the next.
The German word infolgedessen is a sophisticated adverb used to establish a logical consequence between two events or states. In English, it is most accurately translated as "consequently," "as a result of that," or "as a consequence." While casual speech often relies on simpler connectors like deshalb or darum, infolgedessen elevates the register of the conversation or text, making it a staple in formal writing, academic reports, and professional correspondence. It functions as a bridge that tells the listener exactly why the second part of a statement is happening: because the first part occurred. It is not just a simple 'so'; it carries the weight of a direct causal chain, implying that the outcome was the inevitable next step in a sequence of events.
- Semantic Function
- It acts as a causative connector, linking a cause in the first clause to an effect in the second clause.
- Register
- Primarily formal and written; used in journalism, legal documents, and high-level business German.
When people use this word, they are usually trying to sound precise. For example, in a weather report, one might hear that a storm destroyed the power lines and, infolgedessen, the city was without electricity. This sounds much more official than saying "and so the city had no power." It suggests a structural or systemic relationship between the cause and the effect. It is also particularly useful in argumentative writing where you need to lead the reader through a series of logical steps toward a conclusion. By using infolgedessen, you signal that the information following the word is the logical deduction of the information preceding it.
Die Verkaufszahlen sind stark gesunken; infolgedessen musste die Firma Personal entlassen.
In everyday life, you might not use this word while chatting with friends at a bar, but you will certainly encounter it in newspapers like the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung or when reading a contract. It is a word that demands attention and respect for the logic being presented. It helps avoid the repetitive use of also or dann, providing a more professional texture to the German language. Understanding this word is a key milestone for B1 and B2 learners because it signifies a transition from basic survival German to nuanced, expressive German.
Furthermore, the word is composed of 'infolge' (as a result of) and 'dessen' (of that/which). This literal meaning—'in consequence of that'—makes its function very clear to those who understand German cases, as 'dessen' is the genitive form. This grammatical root reinforces its role as a backward-looking connector that takes the previous thought and carries its consequences forward into the next thought.
Es gab einen Streik bei der Bahn; infolgedessen kamen viele Pendler zu spät zur Arbeit.
- Logical Flow
- Statement A (Cause) -> Infolgedessen -> Statement B (Effect).
The word is versatile in its placement within the sentence, though it most commonly appears at the very beginning of the second clause or immediately after the conjugated verb. This flexibility allows writers to emphasize different parts of the consequence. If placed at the start, the causal link is the primary focus. If tucked into the middle of the sentence, the action itself remains the focus while the cause is acknowledged as a background fact.
Mastering the use of infolgedessen requires a solid understanding of German sentence structure, specifically the rules governing 'Konjunktionaladverbien' (conjunctive adverbs). Unlike conjunctions such as und or aber, which do not occupy a position in the sentence, infolgedessen counts as a full element in Position 1 if it starts a clause. This means the conjugated verb must follow immediately after it. This is the most common mistake for English speakers, who are used to saying "Consequently, I went home" (where 'consequently' is followed by a comma and then the subject). In German, it must be "Infolgedessen ging ich nach Hause."
Infolgedessen konnte die Sitzung nicht wie geplant stattfinden.
Let us look at the three primary ways to integrate this word into your writing. The first is as a linker between two independent sentences. Here, you use a semicolon or a full stop to separate the cause from the effect. The second sentence then begins with infolgedessen, followed by the verb. This creates a strong, rhythmic flow that is highly valued in German academic writing. It signals to the reader that you are constructing a logical argument.
- Position 1 (The Starter)
- Infolgedessen [Verb] [Subject] ... (e.g., Infolgedessen blieb das Geschäft geschlossen.)
- Position 3 (The Smoother)
- [Subject] [Verb] infolgedessen ... (e.g., Das Geschäft blieb infolgedessen geschlossen.)
The second way to use it is by placing it in the 'Mittelfeld' (middle field) of the sentence. This is often more elegant and less "heavy-handed" than starting with the word. In this structure, the subject remains in Position 1, the verb in Position 2, and infolgedessen follows shortly after. This is particularly useful when you want to maintain the focus on the actor or the subject of the sentence while still acknowledging the cause. For example: "Die Brücke war beschädigt. Die Autos konnten infolgedessen den Fluss nicht überqueren."
The third usage involves connecting clauses within a single sentence using a comma. While infolgedessen is not a subordinating conjunction (like weil), it can still be used after a comma to start a new main clause. Remember that even here, the verb must follow it immediately. This is often seen in long, complex sentences typical of bureaucratic or legal German. It allows for the accumulation of multiple consequences within a single breath, though one must be careful not to make the sentence too long and unreadable.
Der Vertrag wurde nicht rechtzeitig unterschrieben, infolgedessen erlosch das Angebot automatisch.
Finally, it is important to distinguish infolgedessen from the preposition infolge. While they look similar, infolge requires a noun in the genitive case (e.g., "infolge des Regens"), whereas infolgedessen stands alone and refers back to a whole previous clause or sentence. Using the wrong one can lead to grammatical collapse in your sentence. Practice switching between "Infolge des Unfalls..." and "Es gab einen Unfall. Infolgedessen..." to master this distinction.
You will rarely hear infolgedessen in a casual conversation at a supermarket or while playing football. If you use it there, you might sound like a law professor or a news anchor. However, it is ubiquitous in specific professional and intellectual environments. If you are listening to the German public radio station Deutschlandfunk or watching the evening news Tagesschau, you will hear it frequently. Journalists use it to link political decisions to their social outcomes without repeating simpler words like daher.
Die Rohstoffpreise sind gestiegen; infolgedessen müssen wir unsere Preise anpassen.
In the workplace, particularly during meetings or in official reports, infolgedessen is a powerful tool. It demonstrates that you have thought through the logical chain of events. A manager might say, "The project has been delayed by two weeks; infolgedessen, we need to adjust the budget." In this context, the word adds a layer of professionalism and authority. It suggests that the conclusion isn't just an opinion, but a necessary result of the facts presented. It is also very common in academic lectures. A professor explaining a scientific process or a historical event will use infolgedessen to move from the 'cause' phase of the lecture to the 'result' phase.
- News & Media
- Used to report on economic shifts, political changes, or environmental impacts.
- Legal & Official
- Found in court rulings, contracts, and bureaucratic letters to explain the legal consequences of an action.
Another place you will frequently encounter this word is in non-fiction books and essays. If you are reading a book about history or philosophy in German, infolgedessen will be one of the most common transition words you see. It allows authors to build complex arguments that feel cohesive and well-reasoned. In these texts, the word often appears at the beginning of a new paragraph to link it to the conclusion of the previous one, serving as a structural anchor for the entire piece of writing.
Finally, you might hear it in formal speeches or presentations. Whether it's a CEO addressing shareholders or a politician giving a speech in the Bundestag, infolgedessen is used to project clarity and logical rigor. It helps the speaker sound organized. For a learner, being able to recognize and use this word in a presentation is a sign of reaching an advanced level of fluency. It shows that you are not just communicating basic ideas, but that you are comfortable with the formal structures of the German language.
Das Gesetz wurde gestern verabschiedet; infolgedessen ändern sich ab morgen die Regeln.
The most frequent mistake learners make with infolgedessen is related to word order. Because many English speakers translate it as "consequently," they often try to follow the English pattern: "Consequently, the project failed." In English, 'consequently' is an adverbial phrase that doesn't usually affect the core subject-verb order of the following clause. In German, infolgedessen is a conjunctive adverb that occupies the first position. Therefore, the verb must come next. Writing "Infolgedessen die Firma ging pleite" is a major grammatical error. It must be "Infolgedessen ging die Firma pleite."
Incorrect: Infolgedessen wir haben keine Zeit mehr.
Correct: Infolgedessen haben wir keine Zeit mehr.
Another common mistake is confusing infolgedessen with the preposition infolge. Remember: infolge is followed by a noun in the genitive case, while infolgedessen is a standalone adverb. You cannot say "Infolgedessen des Regens..." You must say either "Infolge des Regens..." (As a result of the rain) or "Es regnete; infolgedessen..." (It rained; as a result...). Confusing these two is a common sign of a B1-level learner who is still grappling with the difference between prepositions and adverbs.
- Adverb vs Preposition
- Infolgedessen = Adverb (stands alone). Infolge = Preposition (needs a noun).
- Verb Position
- The verb must always be in the second position when infolgedessen is in the first.
Register mismatch is also a mistake to watch out for. While technically correct, using infolgedessen in a very casual setting—like telling a friend why you didn't buy milk—can sound pretentious or oddly stiff. If you say, "I forgot my wallet; infolgedessen I couldn't buy milk," your friend might laugh. In such cases, deshalb or darum are much more appropriate. Use infolgedessen when the situation is serious, formal, or requires a strong logical link.
Lastly, learners sometimes struggle with the 'dessen' part of the word. They might try to change the ending based on gender or number, thinking it's a relative pronoun that needs to agree with a specific noun. However, in infolgedessen, the 'dessen' is fixed. It refers back to the entire preceding concept or sentence, not a single noun. It is a frozen form, so you never need to change it to 'infolgederen' or anything else. Just keep it as one solid word: infolgedessen.
Sie hat die Prüfung nicht bestanden; infolgedessen muss sie das Semester wiederholen.
German is rich in causative connectors, and choosing the right one depends entirely on the register and the specific nuance you want to convey. Infolgedessen sits at the top of the formality scale. If you are looking for alternatives that are slightly more common in everyday speech but still professional, folglich is your best bet. Folglich is almost identical in meaning but feels slightly less "heavy" and is very common in both written and spoken professional German.
- Folglich
- Very similar to infolgedessen, but slightly more versatile. It also triggers V2 word order.
- Somit
- Translates to 'thus' or 'thereby'. Often used to summarize a conclusion or a logical result of a process.
For more casual settings, deshalb, deswegen, and darum are the standard choices. While they all mean "therefore" or "that's why," there are subtle differences. Deshalb is the most neutral and widely used. Deswegen is often used when emphasizing the reason behind an action. Darum is slightly more emphatic and is often used to answer a "Why?" question directly. All three are much more common in spoken German than infolgedessen.
Es war kalt; deshalb zog er seinen Mantel an. (Neutral/Common)
Es war kalt; infolgedessen stieg der Heizölverbrauch massiv an. (Formal/Official)
In academic or philosophical texts, you might encounter mithin or demnach. Mithin is extremely formal and almost archaic, used to show a logical necessity (like 'hence' or 'consequently' in a mathematical proof). Demnach is used when a conclusion is drawn based on previously mentioned evidence or information, similar to "accordingly." Understanding these distinctions helps you read high-level German literature and academic papers more effectively.
Finally, don't forget daher. It is a great middle-ground word—more formal than deshalb but less rigid than infolgedessen. It is very common in professional emails. If you want to sound smart without sounding like a textbook, daher is often the best choice. By learning the spectrum of these causative adverbs, you gain the ability to adjust your "German voice" to suit any situation, from a beer garden to a boardroom.
- Comparison Table
-
- Deshalb: Common, neutral, everyday use.
- Folglich: Professional, logical, clear consequence.
- Infolgedessen: Formal, written, systemic result.
- Mithin: Highly academic, logical necessity.
How Formal Is It?
Curiosidade
The 'dessen' part is actually a genitive form that has become 'frozen' into this adverbial compound. It is one of the many examples in German where a whole phrase turned into a single word over centuries.
Guia de pronúncia
- Stressing the first syllable 'IN-folgedessen'.
- Pronouncing the 'g' as a soft 'j' or 'zh' sound.
- Mumbling the 'dess' part which is the most important for clarity.
- Adding an extra 's' like 'infolgedessens'.
- Separating it into three distinct words with pauses.
Nível de dificuldade
Easy to recognize once you know 'Folge'.
Requires correct word order (V2) which is tricky for learners.
Hard to integrate naturally into casual speech without sounding overly formal.
Clear pronunciation but can be missed in fast speech.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
Verb-Second (V2) in Main Clauses
Infolgedessen **ist** (V) die Lage (S) schwierig.
Genitive Case in Pronouns
The 'dessen' in infolgedessen is the genitive form of 'das'.
Conjunctive Adverbs (Konjunktionaladverbien)
Words like 'infolgedessen', 'deshalb', and 'trotzdem' occupy position 1.
Punctuation with Adverbs
Use a semicolon or period before 'infolgedessen' when linking two main clauses.
Adverbial Placement in the Middle Field
Die Preise sind **infolgedessen** gestiegen.
Exemplos por nível
Es regnet viel. Infolgedessen bleiben wir zu Hause.
It is raining a lot. As a result, we are staying at home.
Notice how 'bleiben' comes right after 'infolgedessen'.
Der Zug ist weg. Infolgedessen nehme ich den Bus.
The train is gone. Consequently, I am taking the bus.
The verb 'nehme' is in the second position.
Ich bin krank. Infolgedessen gehe ich nicht zur Schule.
I am sick. As a result, I am not going to school.
Infolgedessen is Position 1, 'gehe' is Position 2.
Der Laden ist zu. Infolgedessen kaufen wir nichts.
The shop is closed. Consequently, we aren't buying anything.
Simple cause and effect structure.
Das Auto ist kaputt. Infolgedessen gehen wir zu Fuß.
The car is broken. As a result, we are going on foot.
Verb 'gehen' follows the adverb.
Es ist Nacht. Infolgedessen ist es dunkel.
It is night. Consequently, it is dark.
Adverb + Verb + Subject.
Das Essen ist heiß. Infolgedessen warten wir.
The food is hot. As a result, we are waiting.
Logical consequence.
Ich habe kein Geld. Infolgedessen bleibe ich hier.
I have no money. Consequently, I am staying here.
Formal way to say 'so'.
Die Brücke ist gesperrt. Infolgedessen müssen wir einen Umweg fahren.
The bridge is closed. Consequently, we have to take a detour.
Modal verb 'müssen' is in position 2.
Er hat nicht gelernt. Infolgedessen hat er die Prüfung nicht bestanden.
He didn't study. As a result, he didn't pass the exam.
Perfect tense: 'hat' (auxiliary verb) is in position 2.
Wir haben kein Brot mehr. Infolgedessen gehe ich zum Bäcker.
We have no more bread. Consequently, I am going to the bakery.
Clear causal link.
Die Heizung ist aus. Infolgedessen ist es sehr kalt im Haus.
The heating is off. As a result, it is very cold in the house.
'Ist' is the verb in position 2.
Sie hat ihren Schlüssel vergessen. Infolgedessen kann sie nicht ins Haus.
She forgot her key. Consequently, she cannot get into the house.
Modal verb 'kann' follows 'infolgedessen'.
Der Film war langweilig. Infolgedessen sind wir früher gegangen.
The movie was boring. As a result, we left earlier.
Perfect tense with 'sein'.
Es gibt einen Streik. Infolgedessen fahren heute keine Busse.
There is a strike. Consequently, no buses are running today.
Formal reporting style.
Das Wetter ist schön. Infolgedessen sind viele Leute im Park.
The weather is beautiful. As a result, many people are in the park.
Linking a cause (weather) to an effect (people in park).
Die Firma hat hohe Verluste gemacht; infolgedessen wurden Stellen gestrichen.
The company made high losses; as a result, jobs were cut.
Passive voice: 'wurden' is the conjugated verb.
Der Termin wurde verschoben. Infolgedessen müssen wir den Plan ändern.
The appointment was postponed. Consequently, we must change the plan.
Formal business context.
Es gab technische Probleme. Infolgedessen verzögerte sich die Lieferung.
There were technical problems. As a result, the delivery was delayed.
Reflexive verb 'verzögerte sich'.
Die Nachfrage ist gestiegen. Infolgedessen haben wir die Produktion erhöht.
Demand has increased. Consequently, we have increased production.
Economic context.
Er hat die Regeln verletzt. Infolgedessen wurde er disqualifiziert.
He violated the rules. As a result, he was disqualified.
Formal consequence.
Die Software ist veraltet. Infolgedessen arbeitet der Computer sehr langsam.
The software is outdated. Consequently, the computer works very slowly.
Describing a systemic result.
Der Vertrag ist abgelaufen. Infolgedessen besteht kein Versicherungsschutz mehr.
The contract has expired. As a result, there is no more insurance coverage.
Legal/Administrative tone.
Die Teilnehmerzahl war gering. Infolgedessen wurde der Kurs abgesagt.
The number of participants was low. Consequently, the course was canceled.
Formal institutional context.
Die Verhandlungen scheiterten; infolgedessen kam es zu einem unbefristeten Streik.
The negotiations failed; as a result, an indefinite strike occurred.
Using 'es kam zu' (it came to/occurred).
Die Investitionen blieben aus, und infolgedessen verfiel die Infrastruktur zusehends.
Investments failed to materialize, and consequently, the infrastructure visibly decayed.
Using 'infolgedessen' in the middle of a compound sentence.
Das Unternehmen expandierte global; infolgedessen stieg der Bedarf an Fremdsprachenkenntnissen.
The company expanded globally; consequently, the need for foreign language skills increased.
Abstract nouns like 'Bedarf' (need/demand).
Die Beweislage war eindeutig; infolgedessen wurde der Angeklagte verurteilt.
The evidence was clear; as a result, the defendant was convicted.
Legal register.
Die Ozonschicht ist dünner geworden; infolgedessen erreicht mehr UV-Strahlung die Erde.
The ozone layer has become thinner; consequently, more UV radiation reaches the Earth.
Scientific explanation.
Der Rohstoffmangel verschärfte sich; infolgedessen mussten die Fabriken die Produktion drosseln.
The raw material shortage worsened; as a result, the factories had to curtail production.
Using the verb 'drosseln' (to throttle/curtail).
Die politische Lage ist instabil, und infolgedessen sinkt das Vertrauen der Investoren.
The political situation is unstable, and consequently, investor confidence is falling.
Abstract causal link.
Die Sicherheitsbestimmungen wurden verschärft; infolgedessen verlängerten sich die Wartezeiten am Flughafen.
Security regulations were tightened; as a result, waiting times at the airport increased.
Complex nouns and passive voice.
Die Theorie erwies sich als lückenhaft; infolgedessen musste das gesamte Modell revidiert werden.
The theory proved to be incomplete; consequently, the entire model had to be revised.
Academic context with modal passive.
Es mangelte an einer klaren Strategie, und infolgedessen verliefen die Bemühungen im Sande.
There was a lack of a clear strategy, and consequently, the efforts came to nothing.
Idiomatic expression 'im Sande verlaufen'.
Die demografische Entwicklung ist besorgniserregend; infolgedessen sind Reformen des Rentensystems unumgänglich.
Demographic development is worrying; as a result, reforms of the pension system are inevitable.
High-level political discourse.
Der Autor vernachlässigte die historische Genauigkeit; infolgedessen erntete sein Werk heftige Kritik.
The author neglected historical accuracy; consequently, his work reaped heavy criticism.
Using 'ernten' (to reap/harvest) metaphorically.
Die Digitalisierung schreitet voran; infolgedessen wandelt sich die Arbeitswelt grundlegend.
Digitalization is progressing; as a result, the working world is undergoing fundamental change.
Focus on systemic transformation.
Die rechtliche Lage ist unklar; infolgedessen zögern viele Unternehmen mit neuen Investitionen.
The legal situation is unclear; consequently, many companies are hesitating with new investments.
Nuanced description of corporate behavior.
Die Ressourcen wurden ineffizient genutzt; infolgedessen blieb der erhoffte Erfolg aus.
Resources were used inefficiently; as a result, the hoped-for success failed to materialize.
Using 'ausbleiben' (to fail to appear/materialize).
Die diplomatischen Beziehungen kühlten ab; infolgedessen wurden die Handelsgespräche ausgesetzt.
Diplomatic relations cooled; consequently, the trade talks were suspended.
Diplomatic and formal vocabulary.
Die ontologische Prämisse des Arguments ist fehlerhaft; infolgedessen bricht das gesamte philosophische System in sich zusammen.
The ontological premise of the argument is flawed; consequently, the entire philosophical system collapses in on itself.
Highly abstract philosophical discourse.
Es fehlte an einer hinreichenden Validierung der Daten; infolgedessen sind die Schlussfolgerungen der Studie als hinfällig zu betrachten.
There was a lack of sufficient validation of the data; consequently, the study's conclusions are to be regarded as invalid.
Using 'als ... zu betrachten' (to be regarded as).
Die inflationäre Tendenz wurde unterschätzt; infolgedessen sah sich die Zentralbank gezwungen, die Leitzinsen drastisch anzuheben.
The inflationary tendency was underestimated; as a result, the central bank found itself forced to raise key interest rates drastically.
Complex passive structure 'sah sich gezwungen'.
Die strukturelle Benachteiligung bestimmter Bevölkerungsgruppen verfestigte sich; infolgedessen nahmen die sozialen Spannungen stetig zu.
The structural disadvantage of certain population groups became entrenched; consequently, social tensions steadily increased.
Sociological and academic register.
Die technologische Disruption veränderte die Marktmechanismen; infolgedessen mussten etablierte Geschäftsmodelle grundlegend überdacht werden.
Technological disruption changed market mechanisms; as a result, established business models had to be fundamentally reconsidered.
Using 'überdenken' (to reconsider) in the passive.
Die Evidenz für den anthropogenen Klimawandel ist erdrückend; infolgedessen ist ein sofortiges politisches Handeln imperativ.
The evidence for anthropogenic climate change is overwhelming; consequently, immediate political action is imperative.
Using 'imperativ' as an adjective.
Die Komplexität des Steuersystems nahm stetig zu; infolgedessen stieg die Fehlerquote bei den Steuererklärungen signifikant an.
The complexity of the tax system increased steadily; as a result, the error rate in tax returns rose significantly.
Precise reporting of statistical trends.
Die ästhetische Radikalität des Werkes verstörte das zeitgenössische Publikum; infolgedessen blieb die Anerkennung des Künstlers zu seinen Lebzeiten aus.
The aesthetic radicalism of the work disturbed the contemporary audience; consequently, the artist's recognition failed to materialize during his lifetime.
Art historical and literary register.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
— A short question asking 'And what is the consequence of that?' used in discussions.
Du hast den Job verloren. Und infolgedessen?
— A formal opening in reports meaning 'As a result, it can be stated...'.
Infolgedessen ist festzustellen, dass die Maßnahmen wirksam waren.
— Common in math or legal texts meaning 'As a result, it follows that...'.
Infolgedessen ergibt sich eine neue Summe.
— Formal way to announce a decision resulting from a situation.
Infolgedessen wurde beschlossen, das Projekt zu stoppen.
— Used to explain why something could not happen.
Infolgedessen war es unmöglich, pünktlich zu sein.
— Used in hypotheses meaning 'Consequently, it is to be assumed...'.
Infolgedessen ist anzunehmen, dass der Täter fliehen wollte.
— Used to describe an event that happened as a result.
Infolgedessen kam es zu heftigen Protesten.
— Formal business phrase meaning 'As a result, the company finds itself...'.
Infolgedessen sieht sich die Firma gezwungen, zu sparen.
— Summarizing phrase: 'Consequently, it remains to be noted...'.
Infolgedessen bleibt festzuhalten, dass Fehler gemacht wurden.
— A general concluding phrase meaning 'As a result, one can say...'.
Infolgedessen kann man sagen, dass die Krise vorbei ist.
Frequentemente confundido com
Infolge is a preposition requiring the genitive case (e.g., infolge des Regens), while infolgedessen is an adverb.
Stattdessen means 'instead of that' (substitution), while infolgedessen means 'as a result of that' (consequence).
Unterdessen means 'meanwhile' or 'in the meantime' (simultaneity), not consequence.
Expressões idiomáticas
— To bury one's head in the sand as a result of a situation. Used to describe avoiding a consequence.
Die Firma macht Verluste; infolgedessen stecken die Manager den Kopf in den Sand.
Figurative— To give up or 'lower the sails' as a consequence of something.
Der Widerstand war zu groß; infolgedessen mussten sie die Segel streichen.
Formal/Literary— To meet with stubborn resistance as a result of an action.
Er wollte eine Gehaltserhöhung; infolgedessen biss er beim Chef auf Granit.
Informal/Figurative— To put one's foot in it (socially) as a consequence of a misunderstanding.
Er kannte die Kultur nicht; infolgedessen trat er ständig ins Fettnäpfchen.
Informal— To tighten one's belt (save money) as a result of financial loss.
Die Preise steigen; infolgedessen müssen wir den Gürtel enger schnallen.
Common— To lose one's temper as a result of something annoying.
Die Verspätung war zu lang; infolgedessen fuhr er aus der Haut.
Informal— To throw in the towel/give up as a result of failure.
Das Experiment misslang; infolgedessen warf er die Flinte ins Korn.
Common— To examine closely as a consequence of a problem.
Es gab einen Fehler; infolgedessen nahm man die Prozesse unter die Lupe.
Neutral— To thwart plans as a result of an event.
Der Regen machte uns infolgedessen einen Strich durch die Rechnung.
Common— To get down to business/make a final decision as a result of discussions.
Die Zeit drängte; infolgedessen machten sie Nägel mit Köpfen.
CommonFácil de confundir
They mean the same thing and are used in similar formal contexts.
Infolgedessen is slightly more 'heavy' and focuses on the 'result' aspect, while folglich focuses on the 'logical conclusion'.
Es ist Sonntag; folglich sind die Läden zu.
Both translate to 'therefore'.
Daher is much more common in neutral speech and business emails, while infolgedessen is more formal/academic.
Ich bin beschäftigt, daher antworte ich später.
Fundamental meaning is identical.
Deshalb is the 'everyday' word. Infolgedessen is the 'official report' word.
Ich habe kein Geld, deshalb kaufe ich das nicht.
Both are formal connectors.
Mithin is even more formal, often used in mathematical logic or very old legal texts.
A ist gleich B, mithin ist B gleich A.
Both show a result.
Demnach implies 'according to what was just said' or 'based on that evidence'.
Er ist nicht hier; demnach hat er den Zug verpasst.
Padrões de frases
[Cause]. Infolgedessen [Verb] [Subject] [Object].
Es regnete. Infolgedessen blieb er zu Hause.
[Subject] [Verb] [Object]; infolgedessen [Verb] [Subject] [Object].
Er war krank; infolgedessen verpasste er den Test.
[Subject] [Verb] infolgedessen [Object/Adjective].
Die Produktion wurde infolgedessen gestoppt.
Da [Subordinate Clause], [Verb] [Subject] infolgedessen [Object].
Da es spät war, ging er infolgedessen schlafen.
Infolgedessen ist davon auszugehen, dass [Nebensatz].
Infolgedessen ist davon auszugehen, dass die Preise steigen.
Infolgedessen lässt sich konstatieren, dass [Nebensatz].
Infolgedessen lässt sich konstatieren, dass die Theorie stimmt.
Infolgedessen sah sich [Institution] genötigt, [Zu-Infinitiv].
Infolgedessen sah sich die Regierung genötigt, einzugreifen.
Infolgedessen erweist sich [Konzept] als [Adjektiv].
Infolgedessen erweist sich das Vorhaben als hinfällig.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Como usar
Common in written German (top 5000 words), rare in daily spoken German.
-
Infolgedessen ich gehe nach Hause.
→
Infolgedessen gehe ich nach Hause.
In German, the verb must be the second element. 'Infolgedessen' is the first element, so the verb 'gehe' must come next.
-
Infolgedessen des Regens...
→
Infolge des Regens...
You cannot use 'infolgedessen' with a noun. It is an adverb. For nouns, use the preposition 'infolge'.
-
Infolgedessen, das Wetter war schlecht.
→
Infolgedessen war das Wetter schlecht.
Do not put a comma after 'infolgedessen' when it is at the beginning of the sentence.
-
Er war krank, infolgedessen er blieb im Bett.
→
Er war krank, infolgedessen blieb er im Bett.
Even after a comma, if 'infolgedessen' starts the new clause, the verb must come next.
-
Infolgederen...
→
Infolgedessen...
The word is fixed. You do not change 'dessen' to 'deren' even if the noun it refers to is feminine or plural.
Dicas
The V2 Rule
Always remember that 'infolgedessen' is a 'verb-magnet'. If you start a sentence with it, the verb must be stuck to it in the second position.
Formal Writing
Use 'infolgedessen' in your B1/B2/C1 writing exams. It is a high-scoring word that demonstrates a wide vocabulary and control of complex structure.
Deconstruct the Word
Break it down: In + Folge + dessen. 'In consequence of that'. This makes the meaning much easier to remember.
Use with Caution
Don't over-use it in spoken German. If you use it too much in a casual conversation, you might come across as arrogant or overly intellectual.
Infolge vs. Infolgedessen
If you have a noun (like 'the rain'), use 'infolge'. If you have a full thought/sentence, use 'infolgedessen'.
Variety is Key
In a long essay, mix 'infolgedessen' with 'folglich', 'daher', and 'somit' to keep your writing interesting.
News Anchor Word
Pay attention to the news on ARD or ZDF. You will hear this word almost every night when they talk about politics or the economy.
Logical Flow
In academic German, 'infolgedessen' is often used to introduce the 'Resultate' (results) section of a paper.
No Comma After
Unlike English 'Consequently, ...', German does NOT put a comma after 'Infolgedessen' at the start of a sentence.
Chain Reaction
Associate 'infolgedessen' with a chain reaction. One thing happens, and 'infolgedessen', the next thing happens.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a 'FALL' (Folge) of dominoes. 'In-Folge-Dessen' is the sound the last domino makes as it falls because of the others.
Associação visual
A chain with a heavy link in the middle. The first half of the chain is the cause, the link is 'infolgedessen', and the second half is the result.
Word Web
Desafio
Try to write a three-sentence formal email using 'infolgedessen' to explain why a meeting must be moved to next week.
Origem da palavra
The word is a compound of the preposition 'infolge' and the genitive demonstrative/relative pronoun 'dessen'. It literally means 'in consequence of that'.
Significado original: In the sequence or trail of that specific thing mentioned before.
Germanic (German).Contexto cultural
No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral, formal logical connector.
English speakers often over-use 'so' or 'because' in German. 'Infolgedessen' is the tool they need to sound more professional and 'German' in their writing.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Professional Emails
- Infolgedessen müssen wir den Termin verschieben.
- Infolgedessen bitten wir um Ihr Verständnis.
- Infolgedessen ergibt sich eine Verzögerung.
- Infolgedessen wurde der Vertrag angepasst.
Scientific Reports
- Infolgedessen stieg die Temperatur signifikant an.
- Infolgedessen konnte die Hypothese bestätigt werden.
- Infolgedessen veränderte sich die Zellstruktur.
- Infolgedessen war das Experiment erfolgreich.
News Reporting
- Infolgedessen kam es zu Ausschreitungen.
- Infolgedessen wurde der Notstand ausgerufen.
- Infolgedessen brachen die Kurse an der Börse ein.
- Infolgedessen änderten sich die Mehrheitsverhältnisse.
Legal Documents
- Infolgedessen erlischt der Anspruch auf Schadensersatz.
- Infolgedessen tritt der Vertrag außer Kraft.
- Infolgedessen ist die Klage abzuweisen.
- Infolgedessen wird das Urteil rechtskräftig.
Academic Essays
- Infolgedessen lässt sich schlussfolgern, dass...
- Infolgedessen bleibt das Problem ungelöst.
- Infolgedessen wandelte sich die Gesellschaft.
- Infolgedessen ist die Argumentation hinfällig.
Iniciadores de conversa
"Es gab gestern ein großes Unwetter in der Stadt. Glaubst du, dass infolgedessen die Züge heute pünktlich fahren?"
"Die Benzinpreise sind wieder gestiegen. Denkst du, dass infolgedessen mehr Menschen auf das Fahrrad umsteigen werden?"
"Die Firma hat angekündigt, alle Gehälter zu kürzen. Was wird infolgedessen deiner Meinung nach mit der Motivation der Mitarbeiter passieren?"
"Es wird immer mehr künstliche Intelligenz in der Schule benutzt. Werden infolgedessen die Lehrer bald arbeitslos sein?"
"Der Sommer war dieses Jahr extrem trocken. Werden infolgedessen die Preise für Gemüse im Supermarkt steigen?"
Temas para diário
Überlege dir eine schwierige Entscheidung, die du in deinem Leben getroffen hast. Was ist infolgedessen passiert und wie hat es dein Leben verändert?
Beschreibe ein politisches Ereignis aus der letzten Woche. Welche Konsequenzen haben sich infolgedessen für die Bürger ergeben?
Stell dir vor, das Internet würde für eine ganze Woche ausfallen. Was würde infolgedessen in der Weltwirtschaft und in deinem persönlichen Alltag passieren?
Denke an ein Buch, das du gelesen hast. Was war der Wendepunkt der Geschichte und was geschah infolgedessen mit dem Hauptcharakter?
Reflektiere über deine Gewohnheiten beim Deutschlernen. Wenn du jeden Tag eine Stunde lernst, was wird infolgedessen in sechs Monaten dein Sprachniveau sein?
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasTechnically yes, but you will sound very formal or perhaps even sarcastic. It is better to use 'deshalb' or 'darum' for text messages with friends. Use 'infolgedessen' only if you are discussing something very serious or professional.
No, it can follow a full stop (period) or a comma. If it follows a comma, it starts a new main clause. The most important thing is that the verb follows it immediately if it is in Position 1 of that clause.
'Infolge' is a preposition (e.g., Infolge des Sturms...). 'Infolgedessen' is an adverb that refers back to a whole sentence (e.g., Es gab einen Sturm. Infolgedessen...). Think of 'infolgedessen' as 'infolge + das'.
They are both common in formal German, but 'folglich' is slightly more versatile and appears more often in professional speech. 'Infolgedessen' is very strong in written reports.
No, German adverbs usually don't sit at the very end. It should be at the beginning of the clause or in the middle field (after the verb and subject).
No, there is no abbreviation. You must write or say the whole word. If it's too long, you can use 'daher' or 'somit'.
No, it is an adverb, so it doesn't have a case itself and doesn't change the case of nouns. It only affects the word order (the verb position).
Yes, it is standard High German and is used across all German-speaking countries in formal contexts.
No! That is a classic mistake. You must say 'Infolgedessen habe ich...'. Never put a comma between 'infolgedessen' and the verb.
Yes, it comes from the verb 'folgen' (to follow). The 'Folge' is the thing that follows—the consequence.
Teste-se 192 perguntas
Combine these two sentences using 'infolgedessen': 'Die Verkaufszahlen sind gesunken.' 'Die Firma muss sparen.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a formal sentence about a delayed train and its consequence using 'infolgedessen'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'infolgedessen' in the middle of a sentence (Mittelfeld).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Combine: 'Es hat stark geregnet.' 'Der Keller ist überflutet.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Rewrite this sentence with 'infolgedessen' instead of 'deshalb': 'Ich habe meinen Pass verloren, deshalb kann ich nicht fliegen.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'infolgedessen' and the verb 'absagen'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to German: 'The prices rose; consequently, demand fell.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a broken computer and lost data.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Create a sentence using 'infolgedessen' and a modal verb.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence in the passive voice using 'infolgedessen'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Combine: 'Die Zinsen sind niedrig.' 'Viele Menschen kaufen Häuser.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'infolgedessen' to explain a scientific result.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a strike and its effect on traffic.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The contract expired; as a result, the insurance ended.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Rewrite: 'Weil es geschneit hat, ist die Schule zu.' (Start with 'Es hat geschneit.')
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about an error and a necessary correction.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Combine: 'Die Sonne schien sehr stark.' 'Die Ernte war schlecht.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a law and its social effect.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'infolgedessen' with the verb 'reagieren'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He didn't sleep; consequently, he was tired.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Read this sentence aloud with the correct stress on 'dessen': 'Infolgedessen blieb er zu Hause.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain a causal chain using 'infolgedessen' (e.g., rain -> no picnic).
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Answer the question: 'Warum bist du zu spät?' using 'infolgedessen'.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a business consequence: 'The prices rose.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Use 'infolgedessen' in a sentence about technology.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Practice saying: 'Infolgedessen wurde der Vertrag gekündigt.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain why a store is closed using 'infolgedessen'.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Make a logical conclusion about a student who didn't study.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Respond to: 'The bridge is broken.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Use 'infolgedessen' to describe a scientific effect (e.g., heat -> melting).
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Practice the V2 rule: 'Infolgedessen...' (add verb then subject).
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain a health consequence: 'I have a cold.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a legal result: 'He broke the law.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain a sports result: 'The team played well.'
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Use 'infolgedessen' to describe a change in the weather.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a consequence of a power outage.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain a result of high traffic.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a consequence of a lost key.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Use 'infolgedessen' in a sentence about a successful project.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Practice saying the word clearly 3 times: 'infolgedessen'.
Read this aloud:
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to the sentence: 'Es gab keine Karten mehr; infolgedessen konnten wir das Konzert nicht sehen.' What was the result?
Listen for the verb: 'Infolgedessen stieg die Arbeitslosigkeit.' What is the verb?
Does the speaker sound formal or informal when using 'infolgedessen'?
Listen to the stress: 'in-fol-ge-DESS-en'. Which syllable is loudest?
Identify the cause: 'Die Zinsen fielen; infolgedessen stieg der Konsum.'
Listen for the modal verb: 'Infolgedessen musste die Sitzung vertagt werden.'
What happened to the flight? 'Der Nebel war dicht; infolgedessen wurde der Flug gestrichen.'
Listen for the subject: 'Infolgedessen änderte der Chef seine Meinung.'
True or False: The speaker used 'infolgedessen' to show a contradiction.
Listen to the word order: 'Infolgedessen haben wir gewonnen.' Is this correct?
What is the consequence? 'Das Wasser war gefroren; infolgedessen platzte das Rohr.'
Listen for the adjective: 'Infolgedessen war das Ergebnis enttäuschend.'
Is 'infolgedessen' followed by a noun or a verb in this audio?
Listen to the end of the word. Is it '-en' or '-em'?
What caused the delay? 'Es gab einen Unfall; infolgedessen verzögerte sich die Ankunft.'
/ 192 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use 'infolgedessen' when you want to sound formal and precise about a logical consequence. Remember the golden rule: Infolgedessen + Verb + Subject. Example: 'Es schneite; infolgedessen blieb die Schule geschlossen.'
- Infolgedessen is a formal adverb meaning 'consequently' or 'as a result.'
- It is primarily used in formal writing, news, and academic contexts.
- It requires the verb to be in the second position of the sentence.
- It links a cause in one sentence to a result in the next.
The V2 Rule
Always remember that 'infolgedessen' is a 'verb-magnet'. If you start a sentence with it, the verb must be stuck to it in the second position.
Formal Writing
Use 'infolgedessen' in your B1/B2/C1 writing exams. It is a high-scoring word that demonstrates a wide vocabulary and control of complex structure.
Deconstruct the Word
Break it down: In + Folge + dessen. 'In consequence of that'. This makes the meaning much easier to remember.
Use with Caution
Don't over-use it in spoken German. If you use it too much in a casual conversation, you might come across as arrogant or overly intellectual.
Exemplo
Es regnete stark, infolgedessen fiel das Spiel aus.
Conteúdo relacionado
Gramática relacionada
Frases relacionadas
Mais palavras de academic
Abbildung
B1Uma ilustração ou figura em um livro ou documento.
Abhandlung
B1Um trabalho escrito detalhado, muitas vezes acadêmico, que explora um tópico específico minuciosamente.
ableiten
B1Derivar ou deduzir uma conclusão a partir de uma premissa ou fonte.
Absatz
B1Um parágrafo em um texto.
abschließend
B1Use 'abschließend' quando quiser dizer algo como um ponto final ou conclusão.
Abschlussarbeit
B1Um trabalho acadêmico final que conclui os estudos universitários para obter um diploma.
Abschlusszeugnis
B1O documento oficial que você recebe ao terminar um curso ou a escola.
Abschnitt
B1Uma seção ou parte de um todo maior, como um parágrafo de um texto ou uma fase da vida.
Absolvent
B1Um graduado é alguém que concluiu com sucesso um curso superior.
absolvieren
B1Concluir com sucesso um curso de estudo ou formação.