forasmuch as

Forasmuch as the sun was shining, we decided to have a picnic.

Definition

1. Conjunction (archaic or formal):
   • Given that; in view of the fact that: "forasmuch as" introduces a clause that provides a reason or justification for what follows. It is used primarily in legal, formal, or literary contexts to mean "since" or "because."

Usage Examples

• Formal/Legal:

  • Forasmuch as the defendant has failed to appear, the court hereby issues a warrant for their arrest. (Given that the defendant did not show up, the court orders an arrest.)
  • Forasmuch as the contract was signed in good faith, both parties are bound by its terms. (Because the contract was signed honestly, both sides must follow it.)

• Literary/Archaic:

  • Forasmuch as the king has shown mercy, the prisoners shall be released. (Since the king has been merciful, the prisoners will be freed.)
  • Forasmuch as the night was dark and the road treacherous, the travelers decided to wait until dawn. (Given that the night was dark and the road dangerous, the travelers chose to wait.)

Advanced Usage

• "forasmuch as" is a multi-word conjunction that functions similarly to "inasmuch as" or "whereas." It is rarely used in modern everyday English but persists in legal documents, formal resolutions, and historical texts.

  • Forasmuch as the matter concerns public safety, immediate action is required. (Because the issue involves public safety, quick action is needed.)

• In legal writing, it often begins a preamble or recital clause, stating the reason for a decision or law.

  • Forasmuch as the said property has been abandoned, the city council hereby declares it a public nuisance. (Given that the property has been abandoned, the city council declares it a nuisance.)

Variants and Related Words

• Inasmuch as (conjunction): a more common modern equivalent meaning "to the extent that" or "since."

  • Inasmuch as you have completed the assignment, you may leave early. (Since you finished the task, you can leave early.)

• Whereas (conjunction): a formal term used similarly, especially in legal contexts.

  • Whereas the parties have agreed to the terms, this contract is now binding. (Given that the parties agreed, the contract is binding.)

Synonyms

• Since: because; for the reason that.

  • Since it is raining, we will stay indoors. (Because it is raining, we will stay inside.)

• Because: for the reason that.

  • Because the evidence was clear, the jury reached a verdict. (For the reason that the evidence was clear, the jury decided.)

• Given that: considering the fact that.

  • Given that you are tired, you should rest. (Considering you are tired, you should rest.)

Related Idioms

• In view of: taking into account; considering.

  • In view of the circumstances, we must postpone the meeting. (Considering the situation, we must delay the meeting.)

• On account of: because of.

  • The game was cancelled on account of rain. (The game was cancelled because of rain.)