Can You Start a Sentence With Hence? Common Grammar!

Author:

Waqas Ashraf

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Start a Sentence With Hence: Hence, starting a sentence with “hence” is grammatically correct.

It is an adverb that can be used at the beginning of a sentence to indicate the reason or cause for something.

While some traditionalists may advise against it, modern grammar rules allow for the use of “hence” to start a sentence without any issues.

Table of Contents

Start a Sentence with Hence:

Yes, you can start a sentence with “hence,” but it can sound a bit formal. It works best when you’re referring back to something mentioned earlier in the conversation or introducing a conclusion.

Here are some examples:

Hence, we need to come up with a new plan. (This assumes a previous discussion about a plan that needs to be changed.)
Hence the long lines at the amusement park. (This implies something was previously mentioned about the amusement park.)

Hence Meaning:

“Hence” has a couple of different meanings, depending on how it’s used in the sentence.

Here are the two main ones:

Therefore: This is the most common meaning today. It signifies a conclusion based on something mentioned before.

Example: “The cake was baked with fresh ingredients, hence its delicious flavor.”

From this time onwards: This usage is a bit more old-fashioned. It refers to a future time.

Example (archaic): “We set sail a month hence” (meaning one month from now).

Hence Synonym:

Meaning	Formal Synonyms	Informal Synonyms
Therefore (conclusion)	consequently, thus, accordingly, ergo, so, therefore, thereupon	so, then, as a result, because of that
From this time onwards (archaic)	henceforth, henceforward	from now on, onwards, going forward

How to Use Hence in The Middle of A Sentence:

Here’s how to use “hence” in the middle of a sentence:

Function: “Hence” acts as an adverb in the middle of a sentence, indicating a consequence or explanation for something previously mentioned.

Placement:

It’s usually placed between independent clauses (complete sentences with their own subject and verb). You can use a semicolon (;) or a comma (,) before “hence” depending on the sentence flow.

It can also be used within a clause after a dependent clause (a clause that cannot stand alone) but before the main verb.

Examples:

The traffic was terrible; hence, we arrived late. (Semicolon separates two independent clauses)

Since they won the lottery, hence, their extravagant spending. (Used after a dependent clause)

Hence Usage:

Here’s a breakdown of “hence” usage:

Meanings:

Therefore: This is the most common meaning, indicating a conclusion based on something previously mentioned.

Example: “The car wouldn’t start, hence we were late for work.”

From this time onwards (archaic): This usage is less common today and refers to a future time.

Example (archaic): “We depart for the expedition a fortnight hence” (meaning two weeks from now).

Placement:

Mid-sentence: “Hence” functions as an adverb, typically placed between independent clauses. It shows a cause-and-effect relationship between the two parts of the sentence.

Use a semicolon (;) if the clauses are grammatically complete and independent.

Examples:

The recipe calls for fresh ingredients, hence, the vibrant flavor. (Semicolon)

What Is an Example Phrase for Hence?

Here are some example phrases for “hence” depending on the meaning you want to convey:

Meaning: Therefore (conclusion):

Formal: “The experiment yielded unexpected results, hence the need to re-evaluate our initial hypothesis.”
Informal: “It rained all day, hence the cancellation of the picnic.”

Meaning: From this time onwards (archaic):

(This usage is less common today) “The king will hold a grand ball a month hence.” (meaning one month from now)

Can You Use Hence in An Essay?

You absolutely can use “hence” in an essay, especially if you’re aiming for a formal tone. It’s a great way to show the cause-and-effect relationship between ideas and strengthen your arguments.

Here’s why “hence” can be effective in essays:

Benefits:

Formal Tone: “Hence” elevates your writing and demonstrates a strong vocabulary.
Cause-and-Effect: It clearly connects ideas and highlights the logical flow of your argument.

Conciseness: “Hence” can be a concise way to express a conclusion or consequence.

Things to Consider:

Clarity: Ensure the connection between the reason and outcome you’re highlighting with “hence” is clear and easy to follow.

Overuse: While “hence” is a valuable tool, avoid overusing it. Consider synonyms like “therefore,” “consequently,” or “thus” for variety.
Context: Make sure “hence” fits the overall tone and style of your essay.

Is Hence Outdated?

“Hence” isn’t exactly outdated, but its usage can be seen as a bit formal or even archaic depending on the context.

Here’s a breakdown:

Most Common Meaning:

Therefore: This is the most common way “hence” is used today. It indicates a conclusion based on something mentioned before.

Example: “The traffic was terrible; hence, we arrived late.”

Less Common Meaning:

From this time onwards: This usage is less frequent these days. It refers to a future time.

Example (archaic): “The ceremony begins a fortnight hence” (meaning two weeks from now).

Can I Use Hence Instead of So?

You can use “hence” instead of “so” in some cases, but there are some key differences to consider:

Similarities:

Both “hence” and “so” can indicate a consequence or result of something previously mentioned.

Differences:

Formality: “Hence” is a more formal word than “so.” It’s a good choice for essays, academic writing, or formal presentations. “So” is more casual and works well in everyday conversation and informal writing.

Emphasis: “Hence” can sometimes place a stronger emphasis on the cause-and-effect relationship between the two ideas. “So” can be used for a more general connection.
Placement: “So” is very versatile and can be used at the beginning of a sentence, within a sentence, or even to introduce a question (“So, what are you going to do?”). “Hence” is typically used within a sentence, between independent clauses (often with a semicolon) or after a dependent clause.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts!

Starting a sentence with “Hence” is absolutely acceptable. It adds variety to your writing and can help you convey your ideas more effectively.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sentence structures to keep your writing engaging and interesting for your readers.

Remember, the most important thing is to communicate your message clearly and confidently. So go ahead, start that sentence with “Hence” and let your ideas flow freely.