donc/dɔ̃k/
adverb · A2
adverb
Meanings
therefore, consequently; thus
Commonly used to connect sentences, indicating a cause-and-effect relationship.
(discourse particle) used to emphasize, infer, or introduce a conclusion, similar to 'then' or 'so' in English
Frequently used in spoken and written language, placed mid-sentence or at the end to strengthen tone or introduce inference.
Examples
Il pleuvait, donc nous avons reporté la promenade.
It was raining, so we postponed the walk.
Le magasin est fermé, donc il faudra revenir demain.
The shop is closed, so we will have to come back tomorrow.
Tu as terminé ton travail, donc tu peux partir plus tôt.
You have finished your work, so you can leave earlier.
Collocations
- et doncand therefore, and so
- mais donc !but come on!
Common mistakes
donc, je suis fatigué
donc je suis fatigué
The adverb 'donc' should not be followed by a comma; learners often mistakenly add one.
Alors donc, viens ici.
Alors donc viens ici.
When used for emphasis, 'donc' should not be surrounded by commas.