doncs (inferencial)

Inferential Doncs, Not Causal Doncs

Level 4

Doncs introduces an inference, consequence or return to the discussion, not a causal because.

How It Works

Use doncs when the preceding statement supports what follows: no hi ha ningú; doncs, tornem demà. The second clause is a response or inference from the first. A cause explaining an assertion instead normally uses perquè or ja que.

Doncs also resumes a topic in conversation: doncs bé, continuem. That discourse use does not require a measurable cause-and-effect event. Conversely, chronological then is often llavors or aleshores rather than inferential doncs.

To test the intended relation, ask whether the second clause explains why the first is true or says what follows from it. Punctuation reflects the clause structure and the connector's position, not a universal comma on both sides of every doncs.

Examples (3)

  1. No hi ha quòrum; doncs, ajornem la reunió.

    There is no quorum, so let us postpone the meeting.

  2. Ja ho tens tot? Doncs, podem marxar.

    Have you got everything? Then we can leave.

  3. Doncs bé, reprenem el debat.

    Well then, let us resume the debate.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

doncs (inferencial)Level 4Inferential Doncs, Not Causal Doncs

Learn This First

Identify basic clause connections before choosing a more specialized discourse connector. Distinguish factual cause from purpose before choosing the clause’s mood.

Words in This Pattern

doncsdoncs