Hence vs. That Said
What's the Difference?
Hence and That Said are both transitional phrases used to introduce a conclusion or a contrasting point in a discussion or argument. However, while "hence" is typically used to indicate a cause-and-effect relationship or a logical consequence, "that said" is often used to acknowledge a previous point before introducing a contrasting or qualifying statement. Both phrases are useful for guiding the reader or listener through the flow of an argument and adding clarity to the overall message.
Comparison
| Attribute | Hence | That Said |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | As a result, therefore | However, on the other hand |
| Usage | Used to indicate a conclusion or inference | Used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement |
| Formality | Formal | Formal |
| Position in a sentence | Usually at the beginning of a sentence | Can be used at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence |
Further Detail
Definition and Usage
Both "hence" and "that said" are transitional phrases used to introduce a conclusion or a result. "Hence" is typically used to indicate a cause and effect relationship, while "that said" is used to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement. They are both commonly used in academic writing, formal speeches, and professional communication to help connect ideas and make arguments more coherent.
Meaning and Connotation
The word "hence" carries a sense of formality and sophistication, often used in scholarly writing to show a logical progression of ideas. It implies a clear connection between the preceding statement and the following conclusion. On the other hand, "that said" is more conversational and informal, used to acknowledge a previous point while introducing a new perspective or caveat. It can soften the impact of a statement or provide additional context.
Usage in Writing
When using "hence" in writing, it is important to ensure that there is a clear cause and effect relationship between the two statements. This helps to maintain the flow of the argument and make the conclusion more convincing. On the other hand, "that said" can be used to introduce a counterargument or a different viewpoint without completely negating the previous statement. It allows for a more nuanced discussion of the topic at hand.
Formality and Tone
Due to its formal connotations, "hence" is often used in academic papers, research articles, and professional reports where a more serious tone is required. It adds a level of sophistication to the writing and signals to the reader that the argument is well-structured and logical. In contrast, "that said" is more commonly used in casual conversations, blog posts, and opinion pieces where a more relaxed tone is appropriate. It can help to make the writing more engaging and relatable to the audience.
Clarity and Precision
Using "hence" in writing can help to clarify the relationship between ideas and make the argument more coherent. It signals to the reader that there is a logical progression from one point to the next. On the other hand, "that said" can sometimes introduce ambiguity or confusion if not used carefully. It is important to ensure that the contrasting statement is clearly related to the previous point to avoid any misunderstandings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both "hence" and "that said" are valuable transitional phrases that can enhance the clarity and coherence of writing. While "hence" is more formal and indicates a cause and effect relationship, "that said" is more conversational and introduces a contrasting or qualifying statement. Understanding the nuances of these phrases can help writers effectively connect ideas and make their arguments more persuasive.
Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.