1. Show consequence or result:
* Example: "The storm raged for hours, thus causing widespread damage."
* "Thus" indicates that the damage is a direct result of the raging storm.
2. Summarize or conclude:
* Example: "The evidence clearly points to his guilt. Thus, it is reasonable to assume he committed the crime."
* "Thus" summarizes the evidence and leads to the conclusion of guilt.
3. Introduce an explanation or clarification:
* Example: "He failed to show up for the meeting, thus missing the important announcement."
* "Thus" introduces the explanation for his absence.
4. Signal a logical connection:
* Example: "The company is struggling financially. Thus, they are planning to lay off employees."
* "Thus" highlights the logical connection between the company's financial struggles and the planned layoffs.
5. Emphasize a point:
* Example: "The project was a resounding success. Thus, it proves that our team is capable of exceeding expectations."
* "Thus" emphasizes the success of the project and its implication for the team's capabilities.
In essence, "thus" acts as a bridge, connecting ideas and showing their logical relationship. It helps the reader understand the flow of thought and the reasoning behind the author's conclusions.