When writing or speaking, relying on the same phrases repeatedly can make your language seem monotonous. The phrase “from this,” while perfectly grammatical, can sometimes be replaced with more precise or elegant alternatives. Consider situations where you might say, “From this, we can conclude…” or “The data derived from this experiment shows…” In such instances, variations including “hence,” “thereby,” “consequently,” “accordingly,” and “as a result” can add nuance and sophistication to your communication. Understanding these alternatives enhances clarity and allows you to express subtle differences in meaning.
This article explores various ways to express the concept of “from this” in English, offering a range of options to suit different contexts. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, crafting a business report, or simply engaging in everyday conversation, mastering these alternatives will enhance your ability to convey information accurately and effectively. This guide is designed for English learners of all levels, from beginners looking to expand their vocabulary to advanced speakers aiming to refine their writing style.
Table of Contents
- Definition of “From This”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Alternatives
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “From This”
The phrase “from this” is a versatile expression used to indicate a starting point, source, or basis for something else. It often implies a relationship of cause and effect, derivation, or logical consequence. Grammatically, it functions as a prepositional phrase, where “from” is the preposition and “this” is a demonstrative pronoun referring to something previously mentioned or understood in the context. Its primary function is to connect a preceding statement, event, or condition to a subsequent outcome or conclusion.
In essence, “from this” serves as a link, showing how one thing leads to another. Understanding its core meaning is crucial for recognizing when alternative expressions might be more appropriate. While “from this” is generally acceptable, its overuse can make writing sound repetitive and less sophisticated. Therefore, exploring synonyms and related phrases will enhance your ability to express the same idea with greater precision and variety.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of “from this” is relatively simple: it comprises the preposition “from” followed by the demonstrative pronoun “this.” The preposition “from” indicates origin, source, or starting point. The pronoun “this” refers to something specific that has already been mentioned or is readily apparent in the context. Together, they form a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or clause, indicating the origin or basis of an action or state.
When substituting “from this” with alternative expressions, it’s essential to maintain the structural integrity of the sentence. For instance, if “from this” introduces a causal relationship, the alternative should also clearly indicate causality. Similarly, if “from this” indicates a logical conclusion, the substitute should maintain the logical flow of the argument. The choice of alternative will often depend on the specific grammatical function of “from this” in the original sentence.
Types and Categories of Alternatives
Alternatives to “from this” can be grouped into several categories based on the type of relationship they convey. These categories include causal relationships, logical conclusions, source/derivation, and temporal sequence. Understanding these categories will help you choose the most appropriate substitute for “from this” in any given context.
Causal Relationships
These alternatives indicate that something is a direct result or consequence of something else. Words and phrases in this category include: “therefore,” “consequently,” “as a result,” “thus,” “hence,” “because of this,” “owing to this,” and “due to this.” They emphasize the cause-and-effect relationship between the preceding statement and the subsequent outcome.
Logical Conclusions
These alternatives suggest that something is a logical deduction or inference based on the preceding information. Options include: “therefore,” “hence,” “thus,” “consequently,” “accordingly,” “it follows that,” “in conclusion,” and “given this.” These phrases highlight the logical connection between the premise and the conclusion.
Source and Derivation
These alternatives indicate that something originates from or is derived from a particular source. Examples include: “derived from this,” “originating from this,” “stemming from this,” “based on this,” “resulting from this,” and “on the basis of this.” They emphasize the origin or foundation of the subsequent information.
Temporal Sequence
These alternatives suggest a sequence of events, where one thing happens after another. Phrases in this category include: “subsequently,” “thereafter,” “following this,” “after this,” “then,” and “next.” These emphasize the order in which events occur.
Examples
To illustrate the use of alternatives to “from this,” the following tables provide examples categorized by the type of relationship they convey. Each table includes the original sentence using “from this” and several alternative sentences using more precise and varied expressions.
Causal Relationship Examples
The following table illustrates how “from this” can be replaced with alternatives that emphasize a cause-and-effect relationship.
| Original Sentence (Using “From This”) | Alternative Sentences |
|---|---|
| From this, we can see a clear increase in sales. | Consequently, we can see a clear increase in sales. As a result, we can see a clear increase in sales. Thus, we can see a clear increase in sales. |
| From this evidence, it is clear that the project was successful. | Therefore, it is clear that the project was successful. Hence, it is clear that the project was successful. Because of this evidence, it is clear that the project was successful. |
| From this experiment, we observed a significant reaction. | Consequently, we observed a significant reaction. As a result of this experiment, we observed a significant reaction. Owing to this experiment, we observed a significant reaction. |
| From this error, the system crashed. | Consequently, the system crashed. As a result, the system crashed. Due to this error, the system crashed. |
| From this analysis, we understand the market better. | Therefore, we understand the market better. Consequently, we understand the market better. Thus, we understand the market better. |
| From this, the company decided to invest more in research. | Consequently, the company decided to invest more in research. As a result, the company decided to invest more in research. Therefore, the company decided to invest more in research. |
| From this data, it is evident that climate change is accelerating. | Consequently, it is evident that climate change is accelerating. As a result, it is evident that climate change is accelerating. Therefore, it is evident that climate change is accelerating. |
| From this action, the stock prices plummeted. | Consequently, the stock prices plummeted. As a result, the stock prices plummeted. Therefore, the stock prices plummeted. |
| From this understanding, we can create better strategies. | Consequently, we can create better strategies. As a result, we can create better strategies. Therefore, we can create better strategies. |
| From this observation, scientists developed a new theory. | Consequently, scientists developed a new theory. As a result, scientists developed a new theory. Therefore, scientists developed a new theory. |
| From this mistake, we learned a valuable lesson. | Consequently, we learned a valuable lesson. As a result, we learned a valuable lesson. Therefore, we learned a valuable lesson. |
| From this study, it’s clear that exercise improves mental health. | Consequently, it’s clear that exercise improves mental health. As a result, it’s clear that exercise improves mental health. Therefore, it’s clear that exercise improves mental health. |
| From this investment, the company expects high returns. | Consequently, the company expects high returns. As a result, the company expects high returns. Therefore, the company expects high returns. |
| From this failure, the team regrouped and succeeded. | Consequently, the team regrouped and succeeded. As a result, the team regrouped and succeeded. Therefore, the team regrouped and succeeded. |
| From this, the artist found inspiration for a new series. | Consequently, the artist found inspiration for a new series. As a result, the artist found inspiration for a new series. Therefore, the artist found inspiration for a new series. |
| From this understanding, the author wrote a compelling novel. | Consequently, the author wrote a compelling novel. As a result, the author wrote a compelling novel. Therefore, the author wrote a compelling novel. |
| From this incident, new safety protocols were established. | Consequently, new safety protocols were established. As a result, new safety protocols were established. Therefore, new safety protocols were established. |
| From this evidence, the jury reached a verdict. | Consequently, the jury reached a verdict. As a result, the jury reached a verdict. Therefore, the jury reached a verdict. |
| From this experience, the traveler gained a new perspective. | Consequently, the traveler gained a new perspective. As a result, the traveler gained a new perspective. Therefore, the traveler gained a new perspective. |
| From this collaboration, a groundbreaking discovery was made. | Consequently, a groundbreaking discovery was made. As a result, a groundbreaking discovery was made. Therefore, a groundbreaking discovery was made. |
Logical Conclusion Examples
The following table provides examples of how “from this” can be replaced with alternatives that indicate a logical conclusion or inference.
| Original Sentence (Using “From This”) | Alternative Sentences |
|---|---|
| From this, we can conclude that the hypothesis is correct. | Therefore, we can conclude that the hypothesis is correct. Hence, we can conclude that the hypothesis is correct. Thus, we can conclude that the hypothesis is correct. |
| From this data, it follows that the trend will continue. | Accordingly, it follows that the trend will continue. In conclusion, it follows that the trend will continue. Given this data, it follows that the trend will continue. |
| From this analysis, we infer that the strategy is flawed. | Therefore, we infer that the strategy is flawed. Consequently, we infer that the strategy is flawed. Thus, we infer that the strategy is flawed. |
| From this evidence, it is reasonable to assume the defendant is guilty. | Therefore, it is reasonable to assume the defendant is guilty. Hence, it is reasonable to assume the defendant is guilty. Accordingly, it is reasonable to assume the defendant is guilty. |
| From this observation, we deduce that the system is unstable. | Therefore, we deduce that the system is unstable. Consequently, we deduce that the system is unstable. Thus, we deduce that the system is unstable. |
| From this, we can infer their intentions. | Therefore, we can infer their intentions. Hence, we can infer their intentions. Accordingly, we can infer their intentions. |
| From this information, we can deduce the location. | Therefore, we can deduce the location. Hence, we can deduce the location. Accordingly, we can deduce the location. |
| From this, it is logical to assume they will comply. | Therefore, it is logical to assume they will comply. Hence, it is logical to assume they will comply. Accordingly, it is logical to assume they will comply. |
| From this evidence, the only conclusion is that they are involved. | Therefore, the only conclusion is that they are involved. Hence, the only conclusion is that they are involved. Accordingly, the only conclusion is that they are involved. |
| From this, it’s clear that the project is over budget. | Therefore, it’s clear that the project is over budget. Hence, it’s clear that the project is over budget. Accordingly, it’s clear that the project is over budget. |
| From this assessment, it is evident that changes are needed. | Therefore, it is evident that changes are needed. Hence, it is evident that changes are needed. Accordingly, it is evident that changes are needed. |
| From this perspective, we can see the bigger picture. | Therefore, we can see the bigger picture. Hence, we can see the bigger picture. Accordingly, we can see the bigger picture. |
| From this angle, the solution becomes clear. | Therefore, the solution becomes clear. Hence, the solution becomes clear. Accordingly, the solution becomes clear. |
| From this understanding, we can make informed decisions. | Therefore, we can make informed decisions. Hence, we can make informed decisions. Accordingly, we can make informed decisions. |
| From this, it is obvious that they are not prepared. | Therefore, it is obvious that they are not prepared. Hence, it is obvious that they are not prepared. Accordingly, it is obvious that they are not prepared. |
| From this analysis, we can predict future trends. | Therefore, we can predict future trends. Hence, we can predict future trends. Accordingly, we can predict future trends. |
| From this evidence, we can reconstruct the events. | Therefore, we can reconstruct the events. Hence, we can reconstruct the events. Accordingly, we can reconstruct the events. |
| From this information, we can solve the puzzle. | Therefore, we can solve the puzzle. Hence, we can solve the puzzle. Accordingly, we can solve the puzzle. |
| From this, we can determine the root cause. | Therefore, we can determine the root cause. Hence, we can determine the root cause. Accordingly, we can determine the root cause. |
| From this, it’s apparent that they are avoiding the question. | Therefore, it’s apparent that they are avoiding the question. Hence, it’s apparent that they are avoiding the question. Accordingly, it’s apparent that they are avoiding the question. |
Source/Derivation Examples
The following table provides examples of alternatives to “from this” that emphasize the source or origin of something.
| Original Sentence (Using “From This”) | Alternative Sentences |
|---|---|
| The idea for the book came from this experience. | The idea for the book was derived from this experience. The idea for the book originated from this experience. The idea for the book stemmed from this experience. |
| The project was based on this research. | The project resulted from this research. The project was built on the basis of this research. The project was founded on this research. |
| The theory originated from this observation. | The theory was derived from this observation. The theory was based on this observation. The theory stemmed from this observation. |
| The design was inspired by this artwork. | The design was derived from this artwork. The design originated from this artwork. The design resulted from this artwork. |
| The recipe was adapted from this old cookbook. | The recipe was derived from this old cookbook. The recipe originated from this old cookbook. The recipe stemmed from this old cookbook. |
| The information was extracted from this document. | The information was derived from this document. The information originated from this document. The information stemmed from this document. |
| The strategy was developed from this analysis. | The strategy was derived from this analysis. The strategy originated from this analysis. The strategy stemmed from this analysis. |
| The concept was inspired from this conversation. | The concept was derived from this conversation. The concept originated from this conversation. The concept stemmed from this conversation. |
| The innovation was born from this necessity. | The innovation was derived from this necessity. The innovation originated from this necessity. The innovation stemmed from this necessity. |
| The solution was developed from this problem. | The solution was derived from this problem. The solution originated from this problem. The solution stemmed from this problem. |
| The data was compiled from this survey. | The data was derived from this survey. The data originated from this survey. The data stemmed from this survey. |
| The insight was gained from this experience. | The insight was derived from this experience. The insight originated from this experience. The insight stemmed from this experience. |
| The hypothesis was formulated from this observation. | The hypothesis was derived from this observation. The hypothesis originated from this observation. The hypothesis stemmed from this observation. |
| The project originated from this idea. | The project was derived from this idea. The project stemmed from this idea. The project resulted from this idea. |
| The inspiration came from this journey. | The inspiration was derived from this journey. The inspiration originated from this journey. The inspiration stemmed from this journey. |
| The report was compiled from this research. | The report was derived from this research. The report originated from this research. The report stemmed from this research. |
| The design was inspired from this culture. | The design was derived from this culture. The design originated from this culture. The design stemmed from this culture. |
| The framework was built from this theory. | The framework was derived from this theory. The framework originated from this theory. The framework stemmed from this theory. |
| The understanding was developed from this study. | The understanding was derived from this study. The understanding originated from this study. The understanding stemmed from this study. |
| The approach was adapted from this method. | The approach was derived from this method. The approach originated from this method. The approach stemmed from this method. |
Temporal Sequence Examples
The following table provides examples of alternatives to “from this” that indicate a sequence of events.
| Original Sentence (Using “From This”) | Alternative Sentences |
|---|---|
| From this, the team proceeded to the next phase. | Following this, the team proceeded to the next phase. Subsequently, the team proceeded to the next phase. Thereafter, the team proceeded to the next phase. |
| From this, we will analyze the results. | After this, we will analyze the results. Then, we will analyze the results. Next, we will analyze the results. |
| From this point, the situation deteriorated rapidly. | Subsequently, the situation deteriorated rapidly. Thereafter, the situation deteriorated rapidly. Following this point, the situation deteriorated rapidly. |
| From this, the company launched a new product. | Following this, the company launched a new product. Subsequently, the company launched a new product. Thereafter, the company launched a new product. |
| From this, the students began their research. | After this, the students began their research. Then, the students began their research. Next, the students began their research. |
| From this, the project entered its final stage. | Subsequently, the project entered its final stage. Thereafter, the project entered its final stage. Following this, the project entered its final stage. |
| From this step, the process continues. | Subsequently, the process continues. Thereafter, the process continues. Following this step, the process continues. |
| From this action, further steps were taken. | Subsequently, further steps were taken. Thereafter, further steps were taken. Following this action, further steps were taken. |
| From this event, the timeline continues. | Subsequently, the timeline continues. Thereafter, the timeline continues. Following this event, the timeline continues. |
| From this decision, the plan was implemented. | Subsequently, the plan was implemented. Thereafter, the plan was implemented. Following this decision, the plan was implemented. |
| From this moment, everything changed. | Subsequently, everything changed. Thereafter, everything changed. Following this moment, everything changed. |
| From this stage, the development advanced. | Subsequently, the development advanced. Thereafter, the development advanced. Following this stage, the development advanced. |
| From this point forward, the policy was enforced. | Subsequently, the policy was enforced. Thereafter, the policy was enforced. Following this point forward, the policy was enforced. |
| From this incident, the investigation began. | Subsequently, the investigation began. Thereafter, the investigation began. Following this incident, the investigation began. |
| From this starting point, the journey commenced. | Subsequently, the journey commenced. Thereafter, the journey commenced. Following this starting point, the journey commenced. |
| From this beginning, the story unfolded. | Subsequently, the story unfolded. Thereafter, the story unfolded. Following this beginning, the story unfolded. |
| From this initial step, the project progressed. | Subsequently, the project progressed. Thereafter, the project progressed. Following this initial step, the project progressed. |
| From this juncture, the negotiations continued. | Subsequently, the negotiations continued. Thereafter, the negotiations continued. Following this juncture, the negotiations continued. |
| From this landmark, the expedition proceeded. | Subsequently, the expedition proceeded. Thereafter, the expedition proceeded. Following this landmark, the expedition proceeded. |
| From this discovery, the research deepened. | Subsequently, the research deepened. Thereafter, the research deepened. Following this discovery, the research deepened. |
Usage Rules
Using alternatives to “from this” effectively requires understanding certain usage rules. These rules encompass the level of formality, punctuation guidelines, and contextual appropriateness.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
Some alternatives are more appropriate for formal writing, while others are suitable for informal contexts. For instance, “hence” and “thus” are generally considered more formal than “so” or “as a result.” When writing an academic paper or a business report, opt for more formal alternatives to maintain a professional tone. In casual conversation or informal writing, less formal options are perfectly acceptable.
Punctuation Guidelines
Alternatives like “therefore,” “however,” “consequently,” and “similarly” are conjunctive adverbs and often require specific punctuation. When used to connect two independent clauses, they are typically preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma. For example: “The experiment failed; therefore, we must repeat it.” When used to introduce a sentence, they are usually followed by a comma: “Consequently, the company decided to change its strategy.”
Contextual Appropriateness
The choice of alternative should always be guided by the specific context and the intended meaning. Consider the nuances of each alternative and select the one that best conveys the relationship you want to express. For example, if you want to emphasize a direct cause-and-effect relationship, “as a result” or “consequently” might be more appropriate than “accordingly,” which suggests a more general agreement or correspondence.
Common Mistakes
Several common mistakes can occur when using alternatives to “from this.” These include incorrect punctuation, inappropriate formality, and misuse of synonyms. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid errors and improve the clarity of your writing.
Incorrect example: The data was flawed, therefore we discarded it.
Correct example: The data was flawed; therefore, we discarded it.
Incorrect example: From this the CEO, made a formal announcement.
Correct example: Consequently, the CEO made a formal announcement.
Incorrect example: The project failed, as a result we were happy.
Correct example: The project failed; as a result, we were disappointed.
Incorrect example: Originating from this, the new product was created.
Correct example: Derived from this, the new product was created.
Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding of alternatives to “from this,” complete the following practice exercises. These exercises will help you identify the most appropriate alternatives in different contexts.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate alternative to “from this” from the options provided.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| The experiment yielded positive results; ________, we can proceed with the next phase. | (a) hence (b) then (c) derived | (a) hence |
| The company invested heavily in research; ________, they developed a groundbreaking technology. | (a) after this (b) consequently (c) stemming | (b) consequently |
| The data was collected from multiple sources; ________, the report was compiled. | (a) then (b) therefore (c) following this | (c) following this |
| The theory is ________ the observations made during the study. | (a) thus (b) based on (c) accordingly | (b) based on |
| The team worked tirelessly; ________, they achieved their goals. | (a) as a result (b) next (c) due to | (a) as a result |
| The budget was cut; ________, the project was delayed. | (a) therefore (b) then (c) originating | (a) therefore |
| The weather was bad; ________, the event was cancelled. | (a) consequently (b) next (c) derived | (a) consequently |
| The analysis was thorough; ________, the conclusions are reliable. | (a) thus (b) after this (c) based on | (a) thus |
| The information was confidential; ________, it was protected. | (a) accordingly (b) following this (c) stemming | (a) accordingly |
| The study was completed; ________, the results were published. | (a) then (b) due to (c) subsequently | (c) subsequently |
Exercise 2: Sentence Rewriting
Rewrite the following sentences using a more appropriate alternative to “from this.”
| Original Sentence | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|
| From this, we can see a clear pattern in the data. | Therefore, we can see a clear pattern in the data. |
| The project was inspired from this artwork. | The project was derived from this artwork. |
| From this, the company decided to expand its operations. | Consequently, the company decided to expand its operations. |
| The theory was developed from this research. | The theory stemmed from this research. |
| From this, the team proceeded to the next stage of the project. | Following this, the team proceeded to the next stage of the project. |
| From this, the findings were presented. | Subsequently, the findings were presented. |
| From this, the recommendations were made. | Therefore, the recommendations were made. |
| From this, the plan was implemented. | Consequently, the plan was implemented. |
| From this, the system was upgraded. | Following this, the system was upgraded. |
| From this, the investigation was launched. | Thereafter, the investigation was launched. |
Exercise 3: Paragraph Completion
Complete the following paragraphs using appropriate alternatives to “from this.”
The study examined the effects of exercise on mental health. Researchers collected data from a diverse group of participants. ________, they analyzed the results and found a significant correlation between physical activity and improved mood. ________, they concluded that regular exercise can have a positive impact on mental well-being. ________, the findings were published in a leading medical journal.
Answers: Consequently, Therefore, Subsequently
The company faced a significant financial crisis. The CEO implemented a series of cost-cutting measures. ________, the company managed to reduce its expenses. ________, the board of directors approved a new strategic plan. ________, the company began to recover and regain its profitability.
Answers: As a result, Following this, Subsequently
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, understanding the nuanced meanings and idiomatic expressions related to alternatives to “from this” can further enhance
