Causal/consecutive connector

Shows logical consequence or summarizes cause-and-effect relationships

When explaining reasons, giving instructions, summarizing information, or engaging in everyday reasoning

Frequent in informal spoken English, casual writing, emails, chats, and colloquial narratives

so

so

clause A, clause B

• I
• we
• that's why

• therefore
• consequently
• thus

Confusing with purpose connectors, overuse in formal writing

so that, therefore, thus

Informal tone may not be suitable for formal writing

• result
• consequence connectors

Indicates an obvious or immediate consequence

Signals informal, conversational tone

It was raining, so we stayed inside

This chunk is used to connect two clauses, where the second clause is the result or consequence of the first. It is commonly used in informal spoken English and casual writing to indicate a direct or obvious consequence. Learners should be aware of its informal tone and avoid overusing it in formal writing where more explicit connectors like 'therefore' or 'consequently' may be more appropriate.

so -> therefore -> consequently