Understanding the Word "Accordingly"
Language is full of subtle tools that help us connect our thoughts and actions to the reality of a situation. One of the most useful—yet sometimes overlooked—words in the English language is accordingly. Whether you are navigating a workplace email or describing a logical sequence of events, using this word helps you show that your actions are directly influenced by the information you have received. When we use it, we are essentially saying that we have assessed the facts and are moving forward accordingly.
Two Ways to Use Accordingly
While the word often feels formal, it serves two distinct purposes in everyday English. Understanding these two categories will help you master its usage.
1. Acting in Agreement (As an Adverb)
In this sense, accordingly describes how an action is performed. It implies that the action is done in harmony with a specific set of instructions, expectations, or a known situation. If you are told the rules of a game, you play accordingly. If you know the weather forecast is going to be rainy, you dress accordingly.
- The company policy has changed, and all employees are expected to adjust their work habits accordingly.
- He studied the map carefully and planned his route accordingly to avoid the heavy traffic.
- When the fire alarm went off, the students evacuated the building accordingly, just as they had practiced.
2. Showing Logical Consequence (As a Sentence Connector)
You can also use accordingly to replace words like "therefore" or "consequently." In this structure, it connects two ideas, showing that the second idea is a result of the first. It is a slightly more formal way to show cause and effect.
- The supplies were limited; accordingly, we had to ration our food for the remainder of the trip.
- The committee found a conflict of interest, and the contract was cancelled accordingly.
- Production costs have increased, and the retail price has been raised accordingly.
Grammar Patterns and Tips
When using accordingly as a sentence connector, punctuation is vital. If you are joining two independent clauses, it is best to use a semicolon before the word and a comma after it.
Example: The report was finished early; accordingly, the team decided to take the afternoon off.
If you prefer not to use a semicolon, you can simply start a new sentence:
Example: The weather was beautiful. Accordingly, we decided to move the party to the garden.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing it with "according to": A common error is mixing up the adverb "accordingly" with the prepositional phrase "according to." Remember, "according to" must be followed by a source (e.g., "According to the news..."), whereas "accordingly" stands alone as an adverb to describe an action or bridge two clauses.
- Overusing it in casual conversation: While perfectly correct, accordingly sounds professional and somewhat academic. In very casual, informal speech, you might choose "so" or "therefore" instead to sound more natural.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "accordingly" the same as "according"?
No. "According" is almost always used as part of the phrase "according to," which means "as stated by." "Accordingly" describes an action performed in relation to something else.
Can I put "accordingly" at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, starting a sentence with accordingly is a sophisticated way to introduce a conclusion. Just be sure to place a comma immediately after it (e.g., "Accordingly, we signed the agreement.").
Is "accordingly" always formal?
It is generally considered formal or professional. You are more likely to see it in a business memo, a legal document, or an academic essay than in a text message to a friend.
Does "accordingly" always imply logic?
Yes. The word is rooted in the idea of "accord" or harmony. It suggests that there is a logical, sensible, or expected relationship between a situation and the action that follows.
Conclusion
The word accordingly is a versatile tool for any writer or speaker looking to connect ideas clearly and professionally. By using it to show that your actions align with your circumstances, you make your communication more precise and logical. The next time you find yourself explaining why you made a specific choice based on new information, remember that you can state it accordingly.