Hereof vs. Thereof: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on November 29, 2023
"Hereof" refers to something just mentioned in the current document, while "Thereof" relates to something previously specified or understood.
Key Differences
"Hereof" and "Thereof" are both formal terms often used in legal, official, or old-fashioned contexts. While "Hereof" alludes to a matter currently being discussed or just mentioned in the present text or document, "Thereof" pertains to a matter previously specified or understood.
When utilizing "Hereof", one emphasizes the immediate or current matter. For example, in a legal contract, "Hereof" might refer to clauses or terms outlined within the same section. In contrast, "Thereof" often looks back, pointing to an item or subject mentioned earlier or in a different part of the text.
The usage of both "Hereof" and "Thereof" can add precision to a statement, especially in contexts that require exactness, like legal documents. For instance, "Hereof" can be employed to reinforce focus on present terms, while "Thereof" can clarify which previous terms are being referenced.
"Hereof" and "Thereof", while precise, are considered somewhat archaic in everyday language. Modern English often opts for simpler phrases. Instead of "Hereof", one might say "of this", and instead of "Thereof", "of that" could be used.
In summary, "Hereof" and "Thereof" serve as directional indicators in formal texts. "Hereof" points to the current subject, while "Thereof" refers back to a previously mentioned subject.
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Comparison Chart
Reference
Current matter/document
Previous matter or understood context
Context
Relates to the present discussion
Refers back to a prior subject
Common Usage
Legal or formal documents
Legal or formal documents
Modern Equivalent
"Of this"
"Of that"
Directionality
Directs attention to the current subject
Directs attention to a past subject
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Hereof and Thereof Definitions
Hereof
Referring to the immediate subject in a text.
The stipulations Hereof are clear.
Thereof
Of that matter or thing.
The ingredients Thereof are listed.
Hereof
Of this matter or document.
The terms Hereof are binding.
Thereof
Concerning the item or topic previously specified.
The benefits and drawbacks Thereof are clear.
Hereof
In relation to this particular point.
Details Hereof will be discussed later.
Thereof
Relating to a previously mentioned subject.
He owns the land and the house Thereof.
Hereof
Concerning the present content or topic.
A copy Hereof shall be retained.
Thereof
In regard to that particular point or item.
The weight Thereof is substantial.
Hereof
Pertaining to the current topic or discussion.
All parties must be aware Hereof.
Thereof
Referring back to a subject in a text.
The rules and the exceptions Thereof are stated.
Hereof
Of this.
Thereof
Of or concerning this, that, or it.
Hereof
Of this; concerning this.
Thereof
From that cause or origin; therefrom.
Hereof
From or as a result of this.
Thereof
Of this, that, or it.
Hereof
Of this; concerning this; from this; hence.
Hereof comes it that Prince Harry is valiant.
Thereof
From that circumstance or origin; therefrom, thence.
Hereof
Of or concerning this;
The twigs hereof are physic
Thereof
Of that or this.
In the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die.
Thereof
Of or concerning this or that;
A problem and the solution thereof
Thereof
From that circumstance or source;
Atomic formulas and all compounds thence constructible
A natural conclusion follows thence
Public interest and a policy deriving therefrom
Typhus fever results therefrom
FAQs
Can "Hereof" be used at the start of a sentence?
It's uncommon but possible, especially in formal texts.
Are "Hereof" and "Thereof" commonly used in everyday speech?
No, they're more common in formal or legal contexts.
Is "Thereof" always about a distant matter?
It refers to something previously mentioned, not necessarily distant.
Is "Hereof" the opposite of "Thereof"?
Not exactly, but they have contrasting directional uses.
Is "Hereof" outdated?
It's considered old-fashioned in casual speech but still has a place in formal contexts.
Can "Thereof" be replaced by "of it"?
In many contexts, yes, but the choice depends on the desired formality and precision.
Why are "Hereof" and "Thereof" used in contracts?
They provide precision in referring to specific parts of a document.
Why use "Hereof" instead of "of this"?
"Hereof" is more formal and might be preferred for precision in documents.
How do I use "Hereof" correctly?
Use it to refer to the current topic or subject in a formal text.
Can "Hereof" and "Thereof" be used outside of legal documents?
Yes, but they sound formal and are rare in casual conversations.
Can I use "Hereof" in an email?
While possible, it might come off as overly formal in most emails.
What's the modern equivalent of "Thereof"?
"Of that" or "about it" can often be used in its place.
Is "Thereof" a compound word?
Yes, it combines "there" and "of."
Can "Hereof" and "Thereof" be used in academic papers?
Yes, especially when precise references within the text are needed.
Can "Thereof" refer to something mentioned in the same sentence?
Yes, as long as it's referring back to a prior part of that sentence.
Can "Hereof" be used in poetry?
Yes, poets might use it for its formal sound or rhythmic quality.
Can "Hereof" refer to a future topic?
Typically, it refers to the current or immediate topic.
How often is "Thereof" used in modern literature?
It's less common than before but can still be found in formal or historical contexts.
Is "Hereof" used in British English?
Yes, but like in American English, it's more common in formal contexts.
Can "Thereof" and "Hereof" be used interchangeably?
No, they have different directional indications.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
